Former FC Barcelona star Pedro Rodriguez has explained why he chose Chelsea over Manchester United.
Read: Pedro: Why I Joined Chelsea
The 28-year-old was closely linked to the Red Devils during the transfer window, but, after a last-minute bid from Chelsea, he ended up at Stamford Bridge.
Pedro, though, insisted Van Gaal’s treatment of his Spain teammates Victor Valdes and David De Gea was not the reason why he chose to join Jose Mourinho's team instead of the Dutchman's.
"No. It's true that I don't like that treatment for my colleagues, especially for Victor, who has been a reference as a teammate and as a professional," he told Marca.
"I don't believe it's fair, but it didn't influence my decision.
"I just saw that Manchester didn't take that step, that they were taking too long and I needed a team to start. Chelsea were more decisive."
Pedro also revealed he spoke with Valdes before his transfer to England, and insisted the United outcast didn’t speak badly about his current club.
"He told me that the club (United) was very good and there was a great fan following, that his only problem was the situation with the coach.
"He spoke very well of the club. It's a great club but I believe I have chosen well to join Chelsea, I'm convinced.
"I had an important chat with Mourinho, who told me that he wanted me, that with me they would have a better team and he said many things that I liked to hear.
"That, combined with the possibility to live in London, was what made me decide."
Read: Mourinho: Why I Signed Pedro
Pedro joined Chelsea after seven years at Barcelona. He scored one goal and assisted a further two in his first two outings for the Blues.
Do you think Van Gaal’s treatment of Valdes and De Gea played a role in Pedro’s decision? Have your say in the comments section below.
