Willian Signs New Contract with Fulham, Extending Stay in London
Willian, the Brazilian winger, has signed a new one-year contract with Fulham. The club also has the option to extend the contract by another year. This news comes after Willian visited Nottingham Forest’s training ground last week, considering a potential move to the Championship club. However, he ultimately decided that staying in London was the best decision for him.
Remaining in London was a crucial factor in Willian’s decision. The winger has previously played for top London clubs Chelsea and Arsenal, as well as Fulham last season. Familiarity with the city and its football culture played a significant role in his choice to stay.
The option of a further year in his contract was added late in the negotiation process to fend off offers from other clubs. Willian expressed his happiness with the decision, stating, “I’m completely happy. Happy to sign one more year with Fulham. Happy to continue the work that I did last season with all my teammates and the whole club. I think it’s a club that can do even better this season, so I’m happy to continue this amazing adventure.”
Fulham initially offered terms similar to Willian’s previous deal for the 2022-23 season, which included a salary of over £50,000 per week. However, they later improved on that offer, nearly doubling the amount.
Willian joined Fulham last summer from Brazilian side Corinthians. During the 2022-23 campaign, the 34-year-old made 30 appearances for Fulham, scoring five goals and providing six assists. His performances were crucial to Fulham’s 10th-placed finish last season.
Fulham manager Marco Silva was determined to secure the return of one of his standout performers from last season. He had already seen fellow wingers Manor Solomon and Neeskens Kebano leave for free to Tottenham Hotspur and Al Jazira, respectively. Willian expressed his gratitude to Silva for giving him a chance last summer, especially after enduring a difficult time at Corinthians, which included threats against him and his family.
Vice chairman Tony Khan also expressed his delight at Willian’s contract extension, stating, “I’m thrilled that Willian will return to Fulham for at least one more season. He was a very important addition last summer and was a significant contributor during one of the most successful Premier League campaigns our club has ever had.”
Willian’s decision to stay at Fulham provides the club with stability and experience. His contributions on the pitch, both in terms of goals and assists, will be crucial to Fulham’s ambitions for the upcoming season. With a strong squad and the guidance of manager Marco Silva, Fulham aims to build on their previous success and achieve even greater heights.
In conclusion, Willian’s decision to sign a new contract with Fulham and extend his stay in London is a significant boost for the club. His experience and skill will be invaluable to Fulham’s ambitions for the upcoming season. With the option of an additional year in his contract, Fulham has secured a key player who can contribute both on and off the pitch. Fans can look forward to witnessing Willian’s continued success in a Fulham shirt as the club strives for further achievements in the Premier League.