Lucas Digne fires brutal parting shot at Rafa Benitez as he joins Aston Villa from Everton
Lucas Digne has aimed a thinly-veiled dig in the direction of Everton boss Rafa Benitez following the completion of his move to Aston Villa on a four-and-a-half-year deal. The Frenchman became Steven Gerrard’s second signing of the January transfer window on Thursday morning after falling out with his former manager at Goodison Park during the first half of the campaign.
Digne had over three years left to run on his contract at Everton but asked to leave the club this month in order to put an end to his working relationship with Benitez.
He was dropped by the Spaniard for the match against Arsenal in December and failed to work his way back into the side as a result of the differences between the pair.
Benitez went on to question Digne’s commitment and work ethic on a number of occasions, with the defender wasting no time in firing a shot of his own shortly before his move to Villa was confirmed.
He appeared to blame Benitez for the situation as he explained his feelings in a lengthy Instragram post aimed at the club’s supporters on Wednesday evening.
“Everything must come to an end. I just did not expect it to end this way,” said Digne.
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“What has happened and some things that was said about me in the last month has made me very sad. I will always carry you with me in my heart wherever I go.
“Sometimes it only takes one person from outside to destroy a beautiful love affair.”
Villa have reportedly agreed to pay Everton up to £25million for Digne’s services after completing an ambitious loan move for Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho earlier this week.
Gerrard spoke of his delight after Digne’s capture was officially announced, insisting that he could be primed to play a big role in shaping the fortunes of the west Midlands outfit over the next few years.
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“When Lucas became available we jumped at the opportunity to bring him to the club,” Gerrard told the club website.
“To sign a player of his pedigree and quality in the January window is a great addition to our squad and his arrival excites me and everyone associated with Aston Villa.”
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