Legendary Arsenal midfielder Patrick Petit has revealed the behind-the-scenes story of his move from Barcelona to Chelsea in 2001 in a recent interview. The French defensive stalwart confessed that he was faced with a number of options at the time, but it was Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri's personal visit and sincere invitation that ultimately made him make the decision to join the Blues.
Petit recalled, "Before I decided to join Chelsea, Sir Alex Ferguson of Manchester United called me several times. He understood that I was not as good as I wanted to be at Barcelona and we discussed United's plans and vision in depth. However, at the same time, Arsenal's Arsène Wenger also asked me about my situation with concern." But it was Ranieri's personal visit that really made up his mind.
"Mr. Ranieri came to see me personally and we had lunch together. He was very friendly and very sincere in showing me the blueprint of Chelsea and his future plans for the team. His words convinced me that Chelsea is the next stage I should choose." Petit continued, "Despite Sir Alex Ferguson calling me one more time afterwards and even trying to convince me a few weeks after my arrival at Chelsea, I have made my decision and have no regrets."
Petit started his career at Monaco and won the 1996-97 Ligue 1 title with the team. He was then picked up by Arsene Wenger and brought to Arsenal, where he became associated with the Highbury Stadium. During his three years at Arsenal, he played alongside stars such as Marc Oviemans and won several honors including the 1997-98 double. However, the 2000-2001 season was not a good one at Barcelona, which he describes as a "bad time", with the tension between the Catalan and Dutch players in the dressing room and the lack of control by manager Lorenzo Serra Ferrer putting him under pressure.
Today, recalling that transfer, Petit is overwhelmed with gratitude to Ranieri. It was the Italian coach's personal charisma and bright vision for Chelsea's future that made him finally choose the Blues and continue to write his own soccer legend there.
