Gallas Statement In Full

After a number of news & fans sites have published bits and bats from a statement William Gallas gave to his own personal website, I have decided to give you the statement in full.

Many sites have attempted (intentionally or not) to make it seem as though Gallas is having a dig a Chelsea, looking as though William has basically called Chelsea traditionless with crap fans, but that is not the case.

His statement is one that announces his pride at signing for the Gunners and his eagerness to get cracking in training. He also says it was difficult to leave Chelsea but wanted a fresh challenge and described his time with the Blues as ‘marvellous’.

Gallas said,

‘I am happy and proud to announce to you my arrival at Arsenal football club. After five marvellous years spent under the shirt of Chelsea, I dreamed of a new sporting challenge and I couldn’t refuse the opportunity to play with Arsenal. ‘

‘First of all, and it was very important in my decision, I remain in London, a city which I adore and in which I surround myself well with close relations. I will also find some French friends at Arsenal, especially Titi, my pal from the french national team who I hope to win titles with at this club.’

‘At the age of 29, I also wish to continue to progress and who better to be able to allow me to achieve this goal then Arsène Wenger? I am in a hurry already to work under his orders, to learn from him. I signed a 4 year contract because at Arsenal I will enjoy the sporting challenge. I want to bring my experience to the young Gunners finalists of the last Champions league, to know new thrills on a bright new stage, supported by the best fans in england.’

‘Of course to leave the Blues is not done without difficulty. With Chelsea, I achieved much, gained two premiership titles and reached the final of the World cup with the french natioanl team. But I needed a new challenge, to break the routine, to give me new aims. From now on I will be a member of the red and white Army. From now on I will carry high the colors of Arsenal.’

It’s interesting to see so many Chelsea fans get sucked in by the media hype and aiming jibes at Gallas after he served them so well.

Maybe they should try printing what players say in full next time.

But then again that wouldn’t sell papers now would it.

Many thanks to Ali for the translation.