In an interview with the Italian media today, AS Roma star Tammy Abraham revealed that he once had the chance to join Arsenal.
Speaking to Rete Sport (via Tutto AS Roma), the 25-year-old was speaking about his choice of leaving Chelsea for the Italian side a couple of years ago.
That’s when he said that he actually had the chance to stay in London, where Arsenal were interested in signing him and he was keen on joining the Gunners. But it was a phone call from Roma boss José Mourinho that convinced the player to move to Italy instead.
“It was time to leave Chelsea, and I was talking to different clubs in England and Europe. My attention was drawn to a certain London club. I didn’t have to move anywhere, I knew the area well. It was Arsenal. My father is a huge Arsenal fan so he was very enthusiastic, everything was fine. Then José called me,” said Tammy Abraham.
“I laughed, we talked a little more, he told me about the project, his ambitions for the team. He had been in Rome for a short time, but he explained to me what he had seen and what it felt like. I spoke to my agents and they said there was no question, a perfect time to start a new life, to go abroad and experience another different culture. I was so ready and I haven’t looked back since.”
Tammy Abraham had been through Chelsea’s academy, and despite the loans to Bristol City, Swansea City and Aston Villa, he still managed to make 82 appearances for the Blues, with 30 goals and 12 assists.
In the summer of 2021, Roma agreed to buy him in a €40m deal. Since then, he has 34 goals and 11 assists in 91 appearances, and appears to be very happy at the Giallorossi, as he claims he’s not thinking of a return to the Premier League just yet.
“Right now, my focus and attention is on Roma: we want to finish the season. I haven’t even started thinking about anything other than just being here and doing my best. I wouldn’t say there are any loose ends in England. Maybe I’ll stay at Roma for the next ten years, or maybe not. You never know what’s around the corner.”
