Olivier Giroud says Chelsea boss Antonio Conte the driving force behind £18million deadline day switch
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Olivier Giroud has revealed that he didn't want to leave Arsenal for anywhere other than Chelsea after talking to Antonio Conte.
The French international completed an £18million move from the Gunners to their London rivals on transfer deadline day.
Giroud, 31, was wanted by Borussia Dortmund but rejected a switch to the Bundesliga - who eventually took Chelsea's Michy Batshuayi on loan as they replaced Arsenal's £56million acquisition Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Arsenal were originally reticent to allow Giroud to move to the Premier League champions, but with the striker determined to remain in London and after his years of service at the Emirates, Arsene Wenger relented.
(Image: Action Images via Reuters)
(Image: REUTERS)
Giroud, who insists he wanted to leave the Gunners for more first-team football, says Antonio Conte also made a considerable impression.
"The most important thing was talking with the coach, Antonio Conte," Giroud told Chelsea's official website. "I felt like he really wanted me and he really wanted to work with me.
"I wanted to sign for Chelsea and nowhere else. I really wanted to play more. I wanted to stay in the Premier League, and Chelsea for me is perfect because I can even stay in London.
"But the first reason is the sporting challenge. That has always been my first priority.
"Everything is here for me to be happy."
(Image: REUTERS)
Giroud has been added to the Blues' Champions League squad and is looking forward to facing off against Barcelona, whom they meet in the second round later this month.
"The Champions League is massive for a football player," added Giroud.
"There is nothing above it when you’re playing for a club. There will be two nice games against Barcelona.
"We know their qualities and I think everybody will need to be 100 per cent to go through. It will be very exciting and I’m looking forward to it."
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