Chelsea's new midfielder Saúl Ñíguez has revealed all about his Deadline Day move to Stamford Bridge, including how a clash with Atheltico Madrid manager Diego Simeone drove the transfer.
The Spaniard made the switch to West London just three minutes before the transfer window shut last night but within minutes of the deal's completion appeared on Twitch, joining famous Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos.
When asked about why he decided to make the move to the European Champions, Ñíguez revealed it was to do with Thomas Tuchel's promise to play in his preferred position, something Simeone was unwilling to allow.
"I spoke with (Diego) Simeone," the player said on Twitch, as reported by Daily Mail. "I have been playing in different positions for three seasons.
I saw myself stuck in a position that was not mine. Chelsea's option was to get out of the comfort zone, a challenge. Chelsea has promised me to train in my position- to play we will see."
It is understood that Ñíguez wants to play in a more advanced position and move away from the defensive midfield role Simeone has often deployed him in.
Ñíguez said Simeone's refusal to co-operate was the driving force behind his decision, one he considers to be the hardest of his life so far.
"I asked Simeone and Miguel Angel (Gil, the CEO) to train in my position," Ñíguez continued. "I understand that he refused and from there they decided this. I want to take up other movements and positions. It's the most important reason for my decision.
For me it has been the most difficult decision of my life and I have been advised by many people. It's a shame not being able to say goodbye to the fans."
Ñíguez, who played 33 times last season as Athletico clinched the La Liga Title, also told viewers of Llanos' stream about how late the transfer was left and how he and his wife were anxious about whether it was going to be completed before the deadline.
"At 11:57pm we finished reviewing the contract," he explained. "I thought 'this is not going to come in and that's it'. It has been a long afternoon and night.
My wife was very nervous, we have had some very complicated days, because the decision is not easy. Leaving Athletico on a new adventure is complicated."
Despite his reservations about the move, Ñíguez is looking forward to joining his compatriot Kepa Arrizabalaga at Chelsea, admitting that 'it would have been different' if the goalkeeper was not there.
The midfielder hopes to use his time at The Blues to 'compete and find' himself, as well as 'see the Saúl that I want to see'.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Deadline Day, Chelsea, La Liga