In a candid revelation, Arsenal icon Emmanuel Petit has admitted that his decision to leave the club for Barcelona in 2000 was driven by personal reasons, specifically his love life, and it remains a decision he deeply regrets 24 years later.
Arsenal Legend Emmanuel Petit Admits Leaving Club ‘For a Woman’ and Still Regrets It
The Frenchman, now 54, reflected on his choices with a sense of nostalgia and remorse, underscoring the sentiment that sometimes the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Petit enjoyed a glittering spell with Arsenal from 1997 to 2000, helping the Gunners secure the Premier League title and FA Cup in the memorable 1997-98 double-winning season.
Despite his success, Petit was lured away to Barcelona, a decision he now wishes he could take back.
Speaking to Stadium Astro, Petit revealed the influence of his personal life on his career move.
“It was for a woman,” he confessed.
“I always loved Barcelona and Real Madrid, two of the biggest clubs in the world. But I should have stayed with Arsenal, definitely.”
Reflecting on his time in North London, Petit expressed a deep appreciation for the love and success he experienced with the Gunners.
“You know, sometimes the grass is not greener somewhere else. It’s better to stay where you are when you receive love and happiness and you are successful.
Why would you leave? Definitely a big regret. If I could turn the clock back, I would probably make a different decision.”
Petit’s stint at Barcelona was short-lived, lasting only one season before he returned to the Premier League to join Chelsea.
His career at Arsenal remains a highlight, and he continues to be a revered figure among the club’s fans.
Since retiring in 2004, Petit has transitioned into a role as a football pundit and remains passionate about the game.
He recently shared his thoughts on potential transfers, expressing a desire for Arsenal to sign Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo.
“If I could pick one Chelsea player to put into the Arsenal team, actually, that would be Moises Caicedo, definitely,” Petit told Instant Casino.
“I would probably take Cole Palmer as well, but I will go for Caicedo.”
Petit also mentioned Paul Pogba as a potential target for Arsenal, despite acknowledging it would be a gamble due to Pogba’s recent struggles.
“I did mention that Paul Pogba would be a good option for Arsenal, but it’s a gamble,” Petit added.
“He wants to prove that he’s not finished yet. What happened to him for the last two to three seasons was a nightmare outside the pitch.”
Petit’s reflections offer a poignant reminder of the complexities athletes face in balancing their personal lives with professional careers.
His story resonates with fans, illustrating the lasting impact of key decisions and the importance of appreciating success and happiness where they are found.
