Senegalese defender, Kalidou Koulibaly has explained why he decided to leave Chelsea FC after completing a £17 million transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.

Last season, the 32-year-old joined the Blues from Napoli. He struggled for form at the club, appearing in 23 league games and scoring two goals.

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The defender has since explained why he chose to leave Chelsea after only one season.

“I had no guarantees to get regular playing time [at Chelsea],” he explained. “I was always professional but I don’t like to sit on the bench doing nothing.

“I prefer a place where I am wanted and at the center of the project and can be an example for young players. The Premier League is fantastic and there are great players.

“They [Chelsea] expected the Koulibaly of Napoli, but I think my season was not so bad. I needed time and in one year I couldn’t prove what I wanted because of the coach’s and club’s choices.

“I am happy with what I learned about my limits, my family, and my kids. My time had come and I had to make a decision.

“My teammates sent me so many messages, they are all sorry, but I have to prepare for the AFCON. It’s the most important thing for me, Senegal want to win again, but it won’t be easy.”

Koulibaly will now begin his new chapter in the Saudi Arabian League with Al-Hilal after signing a three-year deal.