Brazilian attacker Willian has left Chelsea after his contract expired and is set to join city rivals Arsenal. The 32-year old joined Chelsea on August 2013 from Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala. He has helped Chelsea win 2 Premier League trophies, 1 FA Cup, 1 League Cup and the UEFA Europa League.
Willian thanked the fans of Chelsea and confirmed his departure in a farewell message.
"They were seven wonderful years. In August 2013 when I received the offer from Chelsea, I was convinced that this was where I had to play. Today I am certain that it was the best of decision. There were so many happy times, some sad, there were trophies and it was always very intense,"he wrote.
Yet, beyond the trophies, I learnt a lot about myself. I developed a great deal, becoming a better player and a better person. With each training session, with each game, with every minute spent in the dressing room, I was always learning.
“I am really grateful to the Chelsea fans for the affectionate way they welcomed me at Stamford Bridge and their support throughout my time at the club,” he added.
“There was also criticism, which is normal, what is important though is that both the affection and criticism drove me to always give my all in every training session, every game, to be constantly improving until my very last minute in a Chelsea shirt!
“The time has now come to move on. I am certainly going to miss my teammates. I will miss all the staff at the club who’ve always treated me like a son and I will miss the fans. I leave with my head held high, safe in the knowledge that I won things here and always did my best in a Chelsea shirt! My heartfelt thanks go out to all of you and God bless you,” he concluded.
According various reports, Willian has completed his Arsenal medical and is set to sign a three-year deal with the Gunners. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta would hope for more signings after Willian.
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