Chelsea Star "Willian" Has Confirmed His Exit From The Club

Chelsea star Willian has confirmed his exit from the club, as he is set to complete a move to join North London side Arsenal.

The Brazilian winger who turns 32 today, has left Stamford Bridge after his contract had expired, ending a seven-year stay with the Blues.

Willian contract expired following Chelsea's last-16 elimination from the Champions League by German side Bayern Munich on Saturday night.

Though he missed the match at the empty Allianz Staduim due to an ankle injury.

CloudNine Sports had reported last Thursday, that Willian ignored Chelsea new contract offer, as the club manager Frank Lampard still wanted him to stay at the club.

The Chelsea heirarchy were only willing to offer him a two-year deal rather than the player's desired three years.

"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," Willian wrote in an open letters to Chelsea fans.

"Today I am certain that it was the best of decisions. There were so 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.

"I am really grateful to the Chelsea fans for their support throughout my time at the club.

"The time has now come to move on. I am certainly going to miss my team-mates, tge stadf and 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 added.

Willian scored nine goals and contributed seven assists in the just concluded 2019/20 Premier League season.

Arsenal is the most likely destination for Willian, as they are close to completing the signing of the midfielder on a three-year deal worth around £100,000 per-week. 

Willian made 339 appearances for the club, scoring 63 goals since signing from Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala for £30m in August 2013.

He also won five major honours with the Blues, including two Premier League titles and the Europa League, and won the club's players' player of the year award twice.