Former Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has revealed that although Arsenal did turn the head of ex-teammate Luis Suarez, he never really wanted the move.
The midfielder spoke recently about the relationship between the striker and Brendan Rodgers, which broke down as a result of Suarez’s indecision over the move.
Suarez wanted to progress and play in the Champions League, something Liverpool couldn’t guarantee, and since Arsenal were the first team to come a-knocking who could offer it, he was seriously considering the move. It was then Gerrard’s job to act as peacemaker between the manager and player, and convince his teammate to remain at the club.
“Before the meeting you had Luis Suarez training on his own in the afternoon at Melwood,” Gerrard said.
“Brendan’s relationship with Luis had broken down. I don’t think it was Brendan’s fault.”
Gerrard continued, “Luis wanted to move on, to play Champions League football and he had people in his ear and people around him forcing him to make moves that maybe he didn’t really want to do.
Despite our controversial offer of £40,000,001, as we all know, Suarez spent one more season at Liverpool before heading to Barcelona. The 28-year-old has since scored 28 goals and made 27 assists in 51 appearances for the La Liga giants.
Personally, I’m just glad he’s not in the Premier League. Him and Diego Costa in the same league… can you imagine?