Would Luis Suarez have been the same player if he’d moved to Arsenal instead of Barcelona?
Former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has again revealed that it was only the words of Reds captain Steven Gerrard that prevented him from joining Arsenal in the summer of 2013.
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Suarez was the subject of the infamous £40m and one pound bid from the Gunners, who believed that they were triggering the player’s release clause, only for the Uruguayan to eventually commit to the Reds and stay for one more season.
His final campaign at Anfield saw him score 31 goals in 33 Premier League games, earning him the PFA player of the year award and a club record £75m sale to Barcelona.
In an interview with the Spanish press, who have been re-reported by the Daily Star, Suarez discusses his relationship with Liverpool’s iconic captain, praising him for his career defining advice.
He said: “For all his experience and what that means; Gerrard. He taught me a lot, helped me make decisions, when I thought I was doing things wrong, he helped me realise I was right.
“He knew a lot about football. When I had the chance to join Arsenal, he told me not to. Gestures like that from him really helped me a lot.”
After a difficult start, Suarez now looks to be well-settled in Spain. He’s scored 16 goals in 30 games for Luis Enrique’s side so far this season, and reached double figures for assists too, helping Barcelona reach the top of La Liga and the last eight of the Champions League.