The Return of David Luiz
The Geezer is back. David Luiz has returned home. Having returned back to Chelsea after a spell of 2 years with PSG, the Brazilian defender claims he has “unfinished business” with the Blues.
Luiz was first signed by Chelsea from Benfica for £21m in 2011. He won the Champions League, Europa League, and the FA Cup before heading out to PSG for a then world record fee for a defender of £50m .
He rejoined Chelsea on deadline day for £32m, signing a 3-year deal.
Luiz, a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge, has now outlined his ambitions to win silverware under Antonio Conte. The only trophy which he is yet to win with The Blues is the Premier League, and he will give his all to win it.
Luiz told Chelsea TV: “I think this is the past (his previous 3 trophies won with Chelsea), I need to win again. I am hungry to win. Of course I want to win the Premier League, but of course I want to win all other titles (Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup) again. I am here because I have ambition to play for a big club and when you play for a big club you need to think about winning every single game.”
Winning silverware with Chelsea was not the only reason for Luiz to join back. It was the emotional attachment as well.
“I am very happy to be here again. It is fantastic to have a 2nd opportunity to play for this club. I love this club, that’s why I am here. Let’s try to continue the nice history with a lot of joy and try to get success. Did I think I’d ever play here again? In football anything can happen. Everybody knows I have a feeling for this club. Of course sometimes I could imagine that (coming back to Chelsea). I am very, very happy to be here. It will be an amazing opportunity for me to show the fans again how I love this club and how I love to play for this club. I can’t wait to wear the shirt and play at Stamford Bridge.”
People, however, are not convinced about Luiz’s signing for Chelsea. A major reason is that he fails to display the calmness under pressure that a top-level centre-half should possess. Regardless of that, Chelsea have made a very important signing.
He may commit errors now and again, but the passion that he has for the club is out of this world. He loves Chelsea and would give his 100% on the pitch, which was lacking after Cole, Lampard, Cech and Drogba left. Something seemed missing in the squad which is now filled in by the Brazilian’s arrival.
When Chelsea first contacted PSG for Luiz, they refused to let him go. According to Sky Sports, Luiz then approached the PSG officials and forced a way out after he heard that Chelsea wanted him.
Forcing his way to join Chelsea just shows his love for the club that he still has and it won’t be surprised if he retires at Chelsea.
With this signing, Conte would be pleased with his defence. While Zouma is still yet to recover and Ivanovic not at his best, Luiz would come handy here. Conte, known for playing 3 defenders at the back, can use him along with Azpilicueta and Alonso. Luiz can also play as a central midfielder, although that seems highly unlikely.
One of Luiz’s key qualities is his ability look out for a pass. The current central defenders may not have the quality to play from the back and though Luiz has the tendency to misplace a pass and be erratic while running out with ball, his quality is clear to see and something that most defenders don’t possess.
The Brazilian is also a threat from set pieces and when he gets into his shooting range, which can go up to 40 yards from goal, it can be unstoppable! By signing Luiz, Conte gained 2 players – a technical midfielder and a tough defender.
Luiz is the kind of a player which every team dream to have. Apart from doing his job, he keeps the team lively and shows leadership qualities on and off the pitch. He is a good player, but, more importantly, he lightens the mood in the dressing room.
It would be a treat to watch Luiz play again at Stamford Bridge. It would be a treat to watch his free kicks and his long range shots.
It would be a treat to see him goofing around on Chelsea TV and with the press reporters. It would be a treat to watch him pull pranks on his teammates.
In short, I can’t wait to watch the Brazilin in the Blue jersey and play for Chelsea once again.