Marco Verratti reveals “love” for PSG drove him to Qatar move | OneFootball

Marco Verratti (30) has revealed that his move to Qatari side Al-Arabi was motivated by his love for Paris Saint-Germain, with whom he spent 11 years, in an interview with L’Équipe.

Verratti has been a mainstay in PSG’s midfield for over a decade. Having arrived from Pescara in 2012, the ‘Little Owl’ went on to make 416 appearances for Les Parisiens, scoring 11 goals and registering 61 assists. However, whilst once again pivotal in PSG’s title-winning campaign last season, he was frozen out this summer. He was informed by Luis Campos and Luis Enrique that he was surplus to requirements.

The Italian international received interest from Europe, and as revealed by L’Équipe, notably from Bayern Munich and Barcelona. However, Verratti ultimately moved to the Middle East. The midfielder has now revealed that his love for PSG was a driving force behind his decision.

“I wanted to have a new experience. I didn’t want to go to another club in Europe where I could have played against PSG. I wanted this to be my last team. I had this offer from Doha. Certainly, the level isn’t the same, but I enjoy other elements: growing the championship and advising my teammates,” said the Italian midfielder.

Verratti added, “You don’t spend 11 years in a club without being in love. I have had many offers over the years, even if I could think about them, my priority was always to remain [in Paris].”

He also professed his love for the city of Paris, where he will return upon his retirement. “I will live here my whole life. My family and my children have stayed here. When I have days off, I’ll be back.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle