PSG's David Luiz believes former club Chelsea have become a stronger team this season
Paris Saint-Germain star David Luiz has said that “Chelsea are better” this season and that they have made the right signings. The former Chelsea defender also insisted that he holds no grudges against manager Jose Mourinho.
The Brazilian, who will be lining up against his former club as PSG play Chelsea in the Champions League next week, spent three-and-a-half seasons at Chelsea before moving to the French champions last summer.
The 27-year-old believes that Chelsea have added quality to their squad and improved, since his departure. Luiz told RMC, “Yes, Chelsea are better this season. Above all, they are better balanced following the arrival of Fabregas. He's perhaps the player they were missing: he balances the midfield, makes the team play well and knows how to hold on to the ball from time-to-time.
“With the arrival of Diego Costa -- a warrior forward who always wants to score and challenge defenders -- and the continuity provided by Mourinho in the dugout, it's logical Chelsea are stronger this season.”
Luiz played for the London side last season against his current employers and saw Chelsea go through on away goals over two legs.
He said, “PSG's elimination last year was tough, because it came down to away goals. We'll have to play to our strengths: going forward, playing to win. I have faith in my team. We know Chelsea are an experienced team that has already won the Champions League. They are used to this, and they knocked out PSG last year.”
“But we mustn't think about that too much. We have to show and up our level, and play to all our strengths on the pitch.”
“I still have a good relationship with Mourinho”
Luiz’s £50 million move to PSG last season was followed by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho suggesting that the Brazilian will not be missed at Chelsea. Luiz, however, denies that he will be heading to England with a point to prove. He also added that he is happy in Paris.
Luiz said, “I still have a good relationship with him. Mourinho is someone who works in the same way with all his players, without making any difference between them. People have tried to find a problem between Jose and me, but that problem has never existed.”
“I think I took the right decision. I had come to the end of the road with Chelsea, and I chose to come here, to Paris. I found a team that gives me a lot of satisfaction. And I hope to continue playing well to take Paris as far as possible.”