‘An opportunity’: Europa League star admits he nearly joined Chelsea when Jose Mourinho was in charge
Europa League star Joaquin has claimed in an interview with AS that he nearly made the move to join Chelsea all the way back in 2006.
The attacker is preparing to play in the European competition tonight against Manchester United at the staggering age of 41.
The Real Betis captain has enjoyed a fantastic career which has now entered its fourth decade.
He has featured for a number huge sides, including Valencia and Fiorentina, whilst also appearing more than 50 times for Spain.
It is Betis where he is regarded the highest though, playing more than 200 games in two individual spells with the club.
He has now claimed however that he nearly added Chelsea to his list of other sides all the way back in 2006.
Joaquin nearly joined Chelsea
He said: “You all know Chelsea’s moment, which was the closest thing to being able to come. At that time I didn’t want to leave Betis, I was happy and I felt important. Maybe it was an opportunity, but he was happy. Now I still have the privilege of enjoying these matches.”
Chelsea at the time were going into another season under the leadership of Jose Mourinho, and must’ve been a difficult move to turn down for Joaquin at the time.
They would have been fresh off consecutive title winning campaigns in West London too, as Roman Abramovich’s fortunes began to reap their rewards.
While the player signing may have missed the boat, there is still talk today about the manager making a sensational third return to Stamford Bridge.
The Roma manager reportedly wants to take over the Premier League post if Graham Potter is shown the door. However, his recent huge victory over Borussia Dortmund may see that inevitable delayed.
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