John Terry has thanked Chelsea supporters in an emotional letter just days after announcing his exit from the club at the end of the campaign.
After having been at Chelsea for over two decades, Terry has managed to carve out a space for himself in the Chelsea fans’ hearts. Several banners across Stamford Bridge praised the glory of the central defender, who has been regarded as one of the best during his prime. His performances help the club lift major honours including the Champions League in 2012 and the Europa League a year later. However, Terry has found his first-team opportunities limited this season.
With the age catching up with the former England captain, he has finally decided to call it a day at Chelsea. He is expected to move to the North American leagues or the Chinese Super League in order to play regular first-team football. Before doing so, he has thanked his supporters for helping him be a part of every successful and troubled spell during his 22 years at the club.
After coming through the ranks at Chelsea, Terry managed to win the Premier League four times, FA Cup final times, League Cup three times, Champions League once, and the Europa League once. Thus, he has become the club’s most successful captain since taking the armband in 2004.
"It's with overwhelming emotion that earlier this week the club and I announced this will be my last season as a Chelsea player.This has been the toughest decision of my life for me and my family, but I always envisaged leaving on the right terms, in the right way and at the right time - and that is now. I feel I still have regular football in me but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited, it is therefore time for a new challenge,” said Terry.