Super Eagles skipper, Mikel Obi, Friday morning, confirmed his departure from Chelsea by addressing a heartfelt farewell letter to the club’s fans, players and management.
The 29-year-old, who enjoyed more than a decade trophy-laden career at Stamford Bridge racking up 374 appearances, has now joined Chinese Super League side, Tianjin TEDA FC.
Mikel had been in talks with Valencia and Marseille, but both couldn’t match his wage demands.
In a touching message, Mikel highlighted his journey as a 19-year-old from the Norwegian League to the Premier League where he settled in smoothly at Chelsea.
The Nigerian recalls some of his best moments at the club including his first goal against Middlesbrough in 2007, the club’s Europa and Champions League triumphs as well as some nail-biting clashes.
He also acknowledged the significant role played by the fans in his time at the club.
His words in part: “I say goodbye as a Champion of England, a Champion of Europe, and proud captain of my national team.
“To play in the Premier League, the best league in the world, is every professional player’s ambition. But to play for Chelsea, to become part of the Chelsea family to work with some of the best managers in the world, has been an honour.
“I’m delighted to be joining Tianjin TEDA FC in China, at a time that the Chinese Super League is really tasking off, and I look forward to helping Tianjin TEDA FC continue to grow both on and off the pitch in the next few years.”
A letter to my Chelsea family. ?⚪️ pic.twitter.com/FhcUyq3iaV
— Mikel John Obi (@mikel_john_obi) January 6, 2017
