Willian has disclosed the true reason behind his decision to leave Arsenal, leaving everyone surprised.

Willian has finally disclosed the true reason behind his departure from Arsenal, leaving fans and analysts stunned.

A Sudden End to Willian’s Arsenal Journey

Willian’s brief and lackluster stint at Arsenal puzzled many, as a player of his reputation and skill failed to make an impact in North London. The Brazilian winger, who joined Arsenal in 2020 after a successful spell at Chelsea, has now shared that unhappiness was the driving force behind his underwhelming performances and decision to leave the club.

High Hopes and Early Optimism

When Willian signed for Arsenal, he was eager to start a new chapter. “When I arrived, I was happy, motivated, and ready to succeed—new club, new teammates, and a fresh project,” he recalled. Following seven successful years at Chelsea, his move to Arsenal was seen as a step to bring creativity and experience to the team.

His debut performance against Fulham, where he provided two assists, seemed to justify the excitement. However, this promising start quickly turned into disappointment as the season progressed.

Struggles on the Pitch and Off It

Willian’s time at Arsenal was marked by inconsistent displays. In 37 appearances during the 2020-21 season, he scored just one goal and contributed five assists—far below expectations for a player of his caliber. Criticism from fans and media grew, questioning his commitment and influence on the pitch.

In hindsight, Willian attributed his struggles to his emotional state. “I wasn’t happy at Arsenal,” he confessed. While he avoided revealing specific reasons, it was clear that his dissatisfaction went beyond football, likely involving issues with the club’s atmosphere, tactical approach, or personal circumstances.

A Bold Decision to Part Ways

Despite being tied to a lucrative three-year contract, Willian made the unexpected decision to terminate his deal with Arsenal after only one season. Rather than staying for financial gain, he chose to prioritize his well-being and returned to his childhood club, Corinthians, in Brazil.

This move reportedly saved Arsenal around £20 million in wages, earning him respect for prioritizing his happiness and the club’s financial stability over his contract.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

Willian’s remarks highlight the stark contrast between his initial optimism and eventual dissatisfaction at Arsenal. His case underscores the psychological challenges footballers face and the significant impact mental well-being has on performance.

For Arsenal, it serves as a reminder to assess not just a player’s tactical fit but also their potential compatibility with the club’s environment. For players, it’s a lesson in valuing mental health and happiness over external pressures or financial rewards.

Willian’s tenure at Arsenal may be remembered as a misstep, but his candid reflections bring attention to the human side of football. His choice to walk away from a lucrative contract for the sake of his happiness was courageous and sets an example for others.

Now continuing his career at Corinthians, Willian demonstrates that success in football extends beyond the pitch—it requires a balance of both mental and emotional fulfillment.