Pedro on his transfer: 'It was not about money'

On Monday, Pedro traveled back to Barcelona for one final press conference to say goodbye to the media, fans, and his former teammates. It was a special occasion, a proper sendoff, for a player who spent 10 years at the club.

It was obviously an emotional moment for the new Chelsea man, saying farewell to so many people he's been close with for such a long time. He spoke about how difficult of a decision it was to leave the club he grew up at.

"The board and the staff at FC Barcelona insisted that I stay, and for that I thank them. The easiest thing would have been to stay, it's a difficult decision. I am taking a risk but I am decided."

-Pedro; source: 90 Min

According to Pedro, playing time was the biggest reason for him leaving Barca. Money didn't enter the equation.

"I saw it was difficult to continue at Barça and we found a good way out. I am sad to leave but it's a good opportunity."

"It was not about money. It was the need to play consistently."

The press conference was held in front of the media with a hoard of current Barcelona players in attendance. When the reporters asked Pedro if he felt it was a betrayal to join Jose Mourinho, the players whistled at them in support of their friend.

Mourinho's conversation with Pedro seemed to be the clinching moment in the courtship of the player. Both Manchester clubs were interested in signing him, but the Chelsea boss' desire to bring him in convinced Pedro to sign.

Pedro: "I talked with Mourinho, it's true he called me. I liked what he said. He convinced me." #fcblive

— barcastuff (@barcastuff) August 24, 2015

The Spanish international insists that he never imagined that he'd ever leave the Catalonian club, but now that he has it's all a bit surreal.

"At the start it felt strange to wear the Chelsea shirt, because I had never imagined I would leave Barca."

-Pedro; source: Goal

Long time friend Cesc Fabregas also played his part in recruiting the 28-year-old to Chelsea, but it was the gaffer who ultimately sealed the deal.

Pedro: "Living in London with my family was also something I liked, and the fact that I have friends at Chelsea." #fcblive

— barcastuff (@barcastuff) August 24, 2015

No matter what brought Pedro to Chelsea, it's already proven to be a great piece of business. It's just icing on the cake to beat out two of your main rivals for his services.

Pedro went on to speak about receiving a warm welcome at Chelsea and praised the club's captain John Terry. He will also be expected to sing the club's traditional dressing-room song in front of the team when he returns to Chelsea tomorrow.