Willian has confirmed to the Brazilian press that he will be a Chelsea player next season, amidst the transfer rumours about him leaving Stamford Bridge for Barcelona.

Chelsea’s 15/16 Player Of The Season has been a target for the Catalan club for quite a while now as they submitted three bids for the Brazilian winger; with each of them being rejected by Chelsea.

Willian told a Brazilian news outlet that he is still very happy at Chelsea.

“I’m back to England. I’m very happy at Chelsea; I’m very happy living in London.”

— Willian responding to a Brazilian reporter when asked about going back to work at “his club”.

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This may have been the news that Chelsea fans would have wanted to hear as they gear up for a new season where they’ll be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 5th place finish last season.

Willian may prove to be instrumental in new boss, Maurizio Sarri’s, “Sarriball” system next season, especially in terms of squad depth. With Chelsea playing Europa League football (which is enduring), they’ll need a big squad to get through the four competitions that they’re in.

He may not have had a great World Cup, but Willian’s pace and slick movement will continue to be major assets for Chelsea in the attacking third. However, his front-line partnership with Eden Hazard and Alvaro Morata will have to be strengthened if Chelsea want to challenge for trophies next season. Last season was the test drive, next season they should be ready to race.

After Saturday’s 5-4 penalty shootout win over Inter, Chelsea’s next opponents are Arsenal in the International Champions Cup on Wednesday. Kickoff is at 3:00PM AST and can be viewed on ESPN2.