Eto'o Reveals Reasons For Swapping Russian Money For Chelsea

Samuel Eto'o has revealed that Jose Mourinho was a key factor in his decision to move to Stamford Bridge last summer – also claiming that winning a Premier League title will complete his successful career after having already conquered La Liga and Serie A.

The 32-year-old striker signed a one year contract with Chelsea after spending two seasons with Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala where he became the best paid player in the world.

However, Anzhi was forced to sell their stars last summer due to the illness of billionaire owner M. Suleyman Kerimov and Eto'o moved to West London alongside Brazilian midfielder Willian.

Asked in an interview with French Nespaper Le Monde about why he chose Chelsea he said:

"Every great player who had a career like I had would have gone to a club like Chelsea. Mourinho weighed on my decision to come around 80% because I had worked with him at Inter Milan."

"Jose had already allowed me to make a good choice in the summer of 2009. A choice that was difficult because I left Barcelona and I had to choose the right club at a time when I had to prove that what I had in Barcelona was not an accident. This went extremely well. We had a fantastic team and we practically won everything (Serie A, Italian Cup and Champions League)."

Eto'o's ambition to conquer England's domestic league was also crucial in his decision to join Chelsea.

"I had the chance to play in Spain, we won. I had the chance to play in Italy, we won. And I hope that, thanks to God, I will also win a title in England. And I think my career will be complete."

The former Barcelona striker led the Blues' attack in Monday night's 1-0 win over title rivals Manchester City but despite the victory he claims that Manuel Pellegrini's side are still the favourites to win the Premier League.

"It is not our target. Manchester City must win but if we have the chance we will not say 'no'. As the boss says, the target of the club is not win a trophy this year. This campaign he wants to build a good team and next season we will need to win titles."