Fernando Torres has spoken about his ties to Chelsea and Liverpool, the two clubs he played with in the Premier League.
Now based out in Japan, the 34-year-old tried to be fair in his comments and admitted that he would prefer the Reds to win the title this season, but only if the Blues could clinch the trophy next year.
However, he did credit the hierarchy at Stamford Bridge for providing him with exactly what the regime at Anfield could not at the time, and that’s major trophies at club level.
After leaving Merseyside for London in January 2011, the striker won the FA Cup, Champions League and the Europa League. He never lifted a single piece of silverware with the Reds.
He would later go on to win the Europa League a second time with Atletico Madrid in 2018, two years after finishing as a runner-up to Real Madrid in another Champions League final.
“I have feelings for both of them,” said in an interview with Sky Sports . “Liverpool was the best time in my career. I love the city, the supporters and the club. I am still in touch with them and they made me feel at home when I was there.
“With Chelsea they gave me what I wanted as a player – trophies. I have great memories of my time at Chelsea so it is difficult to choose.”
Although Torres may have warmer memories of his time on Merseyside, he no longer has the connections back in Liverpool that he still maintains in London.
“At Chelsea there are still some team-mates that I played with,” he said. “But at Liverpool there is nobody there – only Alberto Moreno, who I played with at the national team.
“I am still in touch with the staff though so I wish them all the best. I know how important it is for Liverpool to win the Premier League.
“Hopefully they can win the Premier League and Chelsea can win it the year after.”