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Flamini turned down Milan offer to join Gunners

11 September 2013 - 05:20

<strong>French midfielder Mathieu Flamini has revealed that he turned down a two year contract offer from AC Milan to join his former club Arsenal.</strong>

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The 29 year old joined the Gunners as as 20 year old back in 20064 before leaving for Milan in 2008. However, Flamini revealed that he was looking for a lengthier contract offer and turned Milan down.&nbsp;<br />

"Milan asked me to extend my contract for two years," Flamini told France Football.<br />

"However, at 29 years old, I didn't want to sign for anything less than three seasons. I had other opportunities in Italy where clubs other than Milan contacted me, as well as from sides in Germany and England.<br />

"At this stage of my career it was an important choice, so I took time to think. To maintain my fitness I decided to train with Arsenal and then over time the deal unfolded."<br />

Flamini had words of praise for Arsene Wenger and admitted that his presence at the club was one of the reasons why he was prompted to return to the Emirates.<br />

He added: "The fact that Arsene Wenger is still at the club was an important part of my decision, he knows me very well and has played a big role in my career.<br />

"He introduced me to the best league, the Premier League, and has taught me on many levels, tactical, technical and mental.<br />

"We have the means to participate in the title race, even if we are outsiders. I wish to write a beautiful new story with Arsenal."

Written by Prateek Sarkar