Why Emerson Palmieri rejected return

Chelsea loanee Emerson Palmieri in a recent statement, has revealed why he rejected the offer to return to Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.

Palmieri, who is currently on loan at French Ligue 1 club Lyon was wanted by the Blues after they lost Ben Chilwell to injury.

But their bid to recall the Italian international failed because while Lyon refused to sanction the move, Palmieri was reluctant to push for a return to Chelsea as the January transfer window eventually closed.

Palmieri, in a latest statement, has now said that he rejected a return to Chelsea in January because he made a promise to Lyon sporting director Juninho that he would stay at the club until the end of his loan deal.

“I didn’t go back to Chelsea because I promised [Lyon sporting director] Juninho that I would stay for a season,” Palmieri told Lyon’s official website.

“I am a man of my word. I like being in Lyon, I want to be here.

“For next season, it’s difficult to say because it depends on the clubs, but I am happy here.”