Willian has revealed there is ‘no chance’ he would have stayed at Chelsea under Antonio Conte, in an interview with the Evening Standard. 

The 30-year-old has also revealed that new manager Maurizio Sarri is encouraging an exciting brand of football in West London, with an emphasis on flair.

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Willian said:

The manager tells us to play, to enjoy ourselves on the pitch,

Is it fun to play this way? I think so. We have a lot of players with quality up front, like Eden Hazard and Pedro. Players like that want to play football.

That’s why he [Sarri] talked about ‘fun’ football [after arriving at Chelsea]. This is what we will try to do this season.

Despite winning two trophies in his two seasons at Stamford Bridge, Conte’s team had become known for an overly conservative style of play by the end of his tenure.

To compound matters, a toxic dressing room atmosphere meant it was unlikely the Italian would return for the 2018-19 season.

Asked if he would have remained in the capital had Conte not been sacked, Willian said:

No chance. No. I’m here because I want to play for Chelsea. I will only leave if Chelsea want me to go.

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Chelsea square off against Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday, and Willian is feeling confident in the team’s revamped scheme:

Now we have a different style, that’s why we can create problems for Arsenal.

Of course, it will be a special game against Arsenal because it is a derby. It is always difficult against them. We have to prepare well during the week.

Does Willian have a long-term future at Chelsea?

Yes

No