Chelsea signed former Barcelona winger Pedro in a £21.4m deal after it was assumed that he would transfer to Manchester United.
The Spanish international insisted that his surprise decision was not about money.
“I saw it was difficult to continue at Barca and we found a good way out. I am sad to leave but it’s a good opportunity,” Pedro told reporters.
“At first it was strange to wear a shirt that was not Barca’s. I am happy with the new challenge. It was not about money. It was the need to play consistently.”
The 28-year-old winger did not receive as much playing time toward the end of his Barcelona career.
He was pushed out of the starting lineup after the La Liga giants signed Uruguayan star Luis Suarez, and it was nearly impossible to push Lionel Messi or Neymar out of the side.
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Despite his reduced role, Pedro still played a vital role in Barcelona winning the UEFA Champions League title and La Liga championship.
He made 50 appearances throughout the 2014-15 season and came up with 11 goals despite making just 15 starts.
Pedro proved that he will be a great fit with Chelsea in his Blues debut, as he came storming out of the gate with the opening goal of the game.
He also provided an assist in Sunday’s 3-2 win at West Brom.
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