Filipe Luis on Why He Snubbed Atletico Madrid for Chelsea

Chelsea new summer signing Filipe Luis has explained the reasons behind his move to west London, claiming that playing in the Premier League has been his dream since he was a child.

The Blues completed the signing of the 28-year-old left-back as Atletico Madrid tried to block his departure by offering him a new contract.

But Luis explains that when Chelsea approached him earlier this summer he immediately tried to convince Atletico to let him go.

"I have always liked Chelsea. I watch the Premier League a lot and I love London. At Chelsea you can tell people are close. When we play against them in the Champions I felt good in their field and when the offer came I thought it was the team ideal to play in England," he was quoted by AS.

"The truth is that as a child I always dreamed of playing in the Premier League, and decided to communicate it to the Club so they could see that that was my goal, a change of scenery. I think that my time here was up at this stage."

"By changing to new team I renew my hunger and my enthusiasm because I was afraid to settle down here (at Atletico). A football career is short and I want to finish it and pretty way. I want to complete my career (at Chelsea).

Nevertheless, the Brazilian star bid an emotive farewell to Atletico.

He moved to the Vicente Calderon from Deportivo La Coruna in summer 2010 and has since garnered a reputation as one of the best left-backs in Europe, becoming a fan favourite.

"I can say that it has been the most difficult decision I've ever made in my life. When the first offer from Chelsea came, the first thing I did was talk to Caminero (Atletico sporting director) and the club and explain my reasons.

"There have been many moments, a lot of hard work and a lot of commitment. I've been very happy at this Club. The reason for my leaving is neither economical nor because I'm at odds with Atlético de Madrid. On the contrary, I'm still an Atlético and will be for the rest of my life. I felt very identified with this Club and at 29, I very much wanted to try a different League.

"I think that players come and go, they're going to change one year or the next. Some players play better and others play worse, but the club and the fans is what remain. Even the management changes. It's a club where the only thing that remains is the institution."