Ballack: The club not the manager decided I was to leave!

"I would have loved to finish my career at Chelsea, one of the top clubs in the Premier League and in Europe and I admit they were my number one option when my contract expired last summer. I was a little disappointed when we could not come to an agreement on a new contract because at one point, I thought we would get there. Up until quite recently, playing again in the Bundesliga [was] not in my mind at all, but here I am.
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"It was the club. I know I had the backing of the coach, but unfortunately it didn't happen and I had move on to my next challenge with Leverkusen. I don't feel any bitterness towards Chelsea and I hope they keep on winning. Ancelotti is an excellent organiser, they have the footballing ability, character and physical strength. I see them as one of the favourites for the Champions League in 2011. "

"Not rejection, just a little disappointment, as I played to a high standard last year in the Premier League. I started regularly and I'm proud of the part I played in our Double. As a foreigner in English football, it was even more satisfying. My motivation over the next few months and years will be something entirely different. "

"It's a special club where I spent four great years. We won many trophies in my time there, with the fantastic league and cup Double last season, two other FA Cup victories (2007, 2009) and the League Cup (2007) giving me great memories. Right from the moment I signed in 2006, I was treated very well by the people at the club and there was always a great spirit in the squad. We had many champions in the team, six or seven national team captains, and yet our biggest asset was unity, with all these top class players putting egos in their pockets for the good of the team. It's pretty unique in my opinion."