Tiago Reveals He Turned Down Chelsea FC For Atletico Madrid Return

If you were following Chelsea FC’s transfer dealings this summer, you would know that Atletico Madrid midfielder Tiago Mendes was reportedly on the verge of signing a two year deal with the Blues. This was a strange move for two reasons. First, it did not fit the club’s supposed focus on youth in their transfer policy. Second, it also would have went against the club’s policy to only give one year deals to players over 30 years old.

Now it turns out, if Tiago is to be believed, Chelsea did in fact make an offer to the free agent but he chose to stay with Atletico Madrid. Tiago told AS that “The summer was very difficult. I want to explain to the fans what happened but there are some things I cannot explain because they are not important.”

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He went on to say: “At the end of last season, I received a great offer (from Chelsea) and it made me think about making a change. But I realised that the most important thing was to feel important at a club. I spoke to Cholo (Diego Simeone) and he told me he wanted me in the squad in the next training session. From then, I could only think of rejoining Atletico and wearing this shirt again. I am happy and grateful to everyone and to the club for having me back. I will give everything on the pitch to return their efforts.”

The deal did make some sense at the time as the club was looking to replace Frank Lampard after he was not offered the contract. The fact that it was Tiago that was earmarked as the replacement was a bit strange but he is an experienced midfielder who has played for Jose Mourinho before. Instead the club ended up with Cesc Fabregas so it looks like Tiago and Chelsea were both better off.

Source: Sky Sports

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