Willian Chooses to Re-Sign with Fulham Despite Nottingham Forest Offer
Brazilian winger Willian has made the decision to re-sign with Fulham, turning down an offer from Premier League side Nottingham Forest. The 34-year-old will sign a one-year deal with Fulham, despite being offered a two-year contract and more money by Forest.
Willian had visited Forest’s training ground last week to explore the possibility of a move to the City Ground club. While he liked the place and the people, he ultimately felt that staying in London was the right decision for him.
Remaining in London was a key factor in Willian’s decision, as he had previously played for Chelsea and Arsenal, in addition to Fulham last season. The familiarity and comfort of the English capital played a significant role in his choice.
Fulham initially offered terms similar to Willian’s deal for the 2022-23 season, which included a salary of over £50,000 per week. However, they later improved on that offer by nearly doubling the amount. This improved offer was instrumental in convincing Willian to stay with the club.
Willian joined Fulham last summer from Brazilian side Corinthians. During the 2022-23 campaign, he made 30 appearances for Fulham, scoring five goals and providing six assists. His performances were impressive enough to catch the attention of Fulham boss Marco Silva, who was determined to secure his return for the upcoming season.
Silva had already seen two of his wingers, Manor Solomon and Neeskens Kebano, leave for free transfers to Tottenham Hotspur and Al Jazira, respectively. Therefore, retaining Willian’s services became a priority for Silva.
Willian expressed gratitude towards Silva for giving him a chance last summer. He had experienced a difficult time at Corinthians, which ultimately led to him and his family receiving threats. Joining Fulham provided him with a fresh start and the opportunity to showcase his skills once again.
The decision to re-sign with Fulham has proven to be a masterstroke for Willian. His performances last season were mocked by some, but he proved his worth on the pitch and played a crucial role in Fulham’s 10th-placed finish.
As Willian prepares for another season with Fulham, he will be looking to build on his previous performances and contribute even more to the team’s success. With Silva’s support and the familiarity of London, Willian is confident that he has made the right decision for his career.
In conclusion, Willian’s choice to re-sign with Fulham despite an offer from Nottingham Forest demonstrates his commitment to the club and his belief in their future prospects. The decision was influenced by his desire to remain in London and the improved contract offer from Fulham. With his previous performances and Silva’s faith in him, Willian is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.