Lollichon: “Areola wanted to join Chelsea in the summer”

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola wanted to join Chelsea this summer, according to Blues goalkeeper coach Christophe Loliichon. “We spoke a lot in the summer,” he told Le Figaro. “He wanted to come here, but the final decision was not my responsibility. It would have been a pleasure to work with him.” The renowned goalkeeper coach believes that Areola is already superior to long-time France No.1 Hugo Lloris. “I didn’t have to wait until Thursday to discover Areola,” he said. “For me, he’s already the best French goalkeeper today. “His size, his ball-playing qualities, his calmness – he’s the keeper most adapted to playing in the way of the team. “We eulogise about Lloris too much, but Areola is above him. “Against Germany, he was very good in his position and his ability to cut out balls behind his defence. It’s the base of any goalkeeper, but not everyone can do it as well. Alphonse is very pro-active.” “It’s sad to see a club like Paris play a 40-year-old goalkeeper while you have a 25-year-old Areola who meets all expectations,” he said. “In Ligue 1, Buffon can play another one or two years, but in the Champions League be careful – it’s much faster and I’ve got reservations. “Rotation among goalkeepers is ridiculous. Ask Petr Cech if he enjoyed being the second choice with Arsenal in the Europa League last season. He was crazy! “Alphonse will grow alongside Buffon, who can add to his game every day. But he must play, otherwise, he’ll miss his chance.”

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