Scott Minto Snubs Arsenal for Chelsea and Wins FA Cup
Former defender Premier league defender revealed he came close to signing for Arsenal before ultimately choosing Chelsea. This decision proved to be a turning point in his career, leading him to FA Cup glory with the Blues.
Minto Had Options After Leaving Charlton
In 1994, after six years with Charlton Athletic, Minto decided to seek new pastures. Both Arsenal and Chelsea were eager to sign the left-back.
Minto Leans Towards Arsenal Initially
Minto initially believed he would be joining Arsenal. Arsenal manager George Graham offered him a contract.
Minto Hesitates and Chelsea Steps In
However, Minto wasn’t ready to make a hasty decision. He requested a week from Arsenal before accepting their offer, hoping to see if other clubs were interested. This hesitation proved beneficial as the blues used this window to present their offer.
Why Minto Chose Chelsea Over Arsenal
Several factors influenced Minto’s decision to choose the blues over Arsenal, as he explained. One reason was the structure of Arsenal’s contract.
The contract offered by Arsenal wouldn’t increase in value over time, even to account for inflation. Additionally, Minto was concerned about playing time. He was told he might have to wait behind established players like Nigel Winterburn.
Minto also considered the experience of Colin Pates, a former Charlton captain who had moved to Arsenal but found himself stuck in the reserves. Minto, who had been a first-team player since he was 17, wasn’t interested in a similar fate.
Minto Signs with Chelsea
Taking these factors into account, Minto decided to sign with Chelsea. He met with the West London officials after his meeting with Arsenal and was offered a more attractive contract. The decision wasn’t solely about money but also about playing opportunities.
Minto Informs Arsenal of His Decision
Minto tried to inform Arsenal of his decision but was told that George Graham wouldn’t want to speak to him.
“I actually rang up [Arsenal] the next day to try and speak to George,” Minto said, “and I was told, ‘He won’t want to speak to you,’ I said, ‘Well can you at least tell him I tried.'” In an Exclusive from talkSPORT.
Minto’s Chelsea Career and Beyond
Minto stayed at Chelsea for three years, and his last game for the club was the FA Cup final victory over Middlesbrough. He then moved to Benfica on a free transfer, becoming the first Englishman to play for the Portuguese club.
