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Abou Diaby explains why he rejected Liverpool move following Arsenal release
FORMER Arsenal star Abou Diaby has opened up on his decision to join Marseille this summer, despite having options to remain in the Premier League.
Abou Diaby was released by Arsenal after nine years
The 29-year-old was released by the Gunners at the end of last season, bringing an end to his injury-plagued stay in north London.
West Brom boss Tony Pulis openly admitted his club's pursuit of the midfielder, while reports in France suggested Liverpool offered him a pay-as-you-play contract.
He said: "What motivated my choice was knowing which club would help me best medically.
I said to myself, 'Why not go back to France?'
"That was really my priority. I did have other offers. I had very, very good contacts with West Brom.
"Other clubs with whom I talked also put me in good conditions.
"But I found Marseille better. It is still a great French club. I said to myself, 'Why not go back to France?'"