David Luiz on Friday has made his decision to leave Arsenal when his contract expires at the end of 2020/21 season.
The 34-year-old defender has not played for Arsenal since earlier this month, after coming off during the win at Newcastle United with a hamstring injury.
During the spring, Luiz has been rumored to the Portguese club Benfica, which is owned by real estate businessman, Luis Filipe Vieira.
“I always said that I would like to end my career at Benfica. I love Benfica. My dream is to step on the pitch of Estadio da Luz in their colours.” Luiz said.
“My dream is to end my career at Benfica. When, I don’t know, but it will happen. It will, if President Vieira allows me and if the fans want me to come back. It will be one of the most beautiful moments of my career.” Luiz added.
Earlier this week, Luiz’s agent Kia Joorabchian has insisted that Luiz’s future will be resolved this week.
“Now it becomes a moment where you’ve got 14 days left until the deadline and you’re at a critical point of your career, where you’d probably three or four years left at the very top level, so that’s obviously at the back of your mind.” Joorabchian said.
“I spoke with David last night. These things happen in a game, and I’m not defending any situation but David is a guy who has won 20 trophies in his career, including the Premier League, the FA Cup, the Europa League and the Champions League.
“He’s won everything in Portugal and France too, so he’s a guy with a lot of experience and played under [Rafa] Benitez, [Maurizio] Sarri, [Antonio] Conte, [Jose] Mourinho, Unai [Emery] and now Mikel [Arteta].” Joorabchian added.
The Brazilian arrived at Arsenal from Chelsea for £ 8 million in the summer of 2019, signing a one-year deal that had the option of being extended by a further 12 months.
Luiz made 73 appearances for the Gunners pending the final two games of this season, scored four goals, and was sent off three times.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has valued Luiz’s experience but will now need to search for a replacement.
