Willian Confirms Chelsea Exit Amid Arsenal Transfer

Willian has confirmed his exit from Chelsea – paving the way for Arsenal to snap him up on a free.

The Brazilian released an emotional statement on Sunday, thanking the fans and reflecting on his seven years at Stamford Bridge.

Willian is now expected to pen a contract worth £150,000-a-week at Arsenal.

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The 32-year-old forward wrote: “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 decisions. There were no many happy times, some sad, there were trophies and it was always very intense.

“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.

“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 team-mates. 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! Borges da Silva.”

During his time at Chelsea Willian won the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League.