Release date: Sunday, August 9, 2020 3:50 a.m.
Willian has announced that “the time has come” to leave Chelsea amid repeated reports of a defeat to Arsenal’s London rivals.
The Brazilian striker, who on Sunday 32, is out of contract after seven years at Stamford Bridge.
Willian has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup and the Europa League with Les Bleus and would leave with his head up.
“The time has come. I will miss my teammates,” he wrote in an open letter to Blues enthusiasts posted on Twitter.
“All the club staff who have treated me like a son will miss me and I will miss the hobby.
“I’m ranked 15th, knowing I’ve won things here and I’ve done my best productivity in a Chelsea shirt.
“My sincere thanks pass to all of you and possibly God bless you.”
Willian, who suffers an ankle injury, missed the last FA Cup loss to the Gunners last weekend, as well as Saturday’s Champions League to Bayern Munich.
Having refused Tottenham to sign for Chelsea from Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala in 2013, he has scored 63 goals in 339 appearances.
He is reportedly able to stay in the capital, playing with Mikel Arteta at Emirates Stadium.
“It was seven glorious years. In August 2013, when I won Chelsea’s offer, I was convinced that this was where I play,” he wrote, reflecting on his time with the Blues.
“Today I am sure it was the most productive decision. There were so many moments of satisfaction, some sad, there were trophies and it was very intense.
“There was also a complaint, which is normal, but the vital thing is that either the affection and the complaint prompted me to give each and every one of the things in each and every educational session, each and every game, to constantly boost up my last minute under a Chelsea jersey.”
Prior to Saturday’s European 4-1 in Munich, which ended with a 7-1 overall loss, Chelsea coach Frank Lampard said there would be no emotion if Willian chose to leave.
Another heading for the exit door is the striker Pedro.
The Spaniard, who suffered a shoulder injury in the FA Cup final, is expected to register for Roma for a loose move and say goodbye to his current employers.
“After five glorious years, my internship at Chelsea FC is ending,” he wrote on Instagram.
“It has been an excitement and an honor to play in this club and win the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League, as well as participate in one of the world’s football leagues. I made the right decision, Bring with me glorious and unforgettable memories.
“I say goodbye very satisfied with this level of my career, and I am also very excited that the next one will begin. Thank you and luck for the future.”
After qualifying for the Champions League with a fourth place, Lampard’s first crusade as boss ended with disappointing results with the final defeat of the cup followed by a tricky one against Germany.
However, Tammy Abraham, who claimed the comfort of his team at Allianz Arena, praised a “phenomenal” season for the club and believes his first year in the Premier League may have been much better.
The English striker has scored 18 goals in all competitions in his decisive crusade in west London, a feat he is looking for for construction.
“It’s been a season for me and the boys,” the 22-year-old told Chelsea TV.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better season. I’ve had some disorders here and there, however, I came out more powerful and now I have to build for next season and start well and finish well. That’s my pass. I have to raise the bar and pass again.
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