Brazilian star offers honest apology to Chelsea fans after disappointing time at the club

It has been more than a decade since Filipe Luis joined from Atletico Madrid, coming in with a reputation as one of Europe’s top left-backs and high hopes that he would become a key player for Jose Mourinho.

Despite Cesar Azpilicueta’s praise, calling him the best left-back globally at the time, Luis’ tenure lasted only one season before he returned to Spain.

Over a decade later, the former defender expressed regret for not meeting expectations during his time in England.

“I played against Chelsea when I went back to Atletico. And it was special, you know, because when Chelsea bought me from Atletico Madrid, I know they had, they made the effort because it was 20 million euros, I think, in that moment,” he said on The Obi One Podcast.

“Marina and also Abramovich, they spent the money. And I feel that I couldn’t give it back, you know, I didn’t play so well there. And I wasn’t myself in that time. So I also say sorry to all the guys. Yeah, I feel sorry.”

Chelsea fans do not hold any grudges against him either.

The £16 million fee he commanded was nothing compared to some of the spending going on at that time. Not to mention the fact that Chelsea won the league in his only season there.

Filipe Luis is finding his feet in Brazil

At 40, Luis has shifted focus to management.

He began at Flamengo, where he ended his playing days, initially working with the youth set-up before stepping up to the senior job late last year. Since then, he has already delivered a Copa do Brasil title.

Just a few months ago, Chelsea faced Flamengo and Luis at the Club World Cup. Luis’ tactical skills were evident as he led his team to a 3-1 victory over the eventual champions.

Flamengo now sit just one point behind Palmeiras in the Brazilian Serie A after beating them earlier in the season. As the campaign nears its end, there is a good chance the former left-back could pick up another trophy soon.