Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has revealed the personal reason behind his unexpected departure from the Gunners to join Barcelona in 2000.
Petit, who arrived at Arsenal ahead of the 1997–98 season and played a pivotal role in the team’s success, formed a formidable partnership with compatriot Patrick Vieira in midfield.
Together, they helped secure both the Premier League title and the FA Cup in 1998, along with other accolades.
Following his triumph at the FIFA World Cup with France in the same year, Petit continued his successful stint with Arsenal, contributing significantly with 11 goals and 24 assists across competitions.
However, just two years later, he made a surprising move to Barcelona.
Reflecting on his decision, Petit disclosed that his departure from Arsenal was motivated by personal reasons.
Despite his admiration for Barcelona and Real Madrid, he admitted regret over leaving Arsenal, acknowledging that staying with the Gunners would have been a better choice.
“I left Arsenal for a woman. I always liked Barcelona and Real Madrid, two of the biggest clubs in the world. But I should have stayed at Arsenal, definitely,” Petit said [via The Sun].
He added: “You know, sometimes the grass is not greener elsewhere. It’s better to stay where you are when you receive love, happiness and success. If I could turn back time, I would probably make a different decision.”
Petit married French actress Agathe de la Fontaine in 2000 and had a child with her, but they separated two years later.
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