BREAKING: Willian announces he is leaving Chelsea amid Arsenal links
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.
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."
KoketsoFred102
1259
ur new home😊
bhavya18
1221
I'll always remember you for everything you've done for this club. It doesn't matter which club you join you'll always remain the hearts of Chelsea fans 💙💙
duycilmpuz
1085
Willian you are the best you are a very humble and cool guy - and you are a player who don’t care what Chelsea do for you- but you care of what you do for Chelsea, We will always remember you as a great player for Chelsea thanks for all you do May God bless you,
ptttprdp
1011
Thank you Willian for giving us good moments ,We also pray for your next journey
danieljamey
839
Thank you William. You're really one of the great players with great personality. You're such amazing player with humility. I wish you all the best.
danieljamey
700
Willian on the left wing, auba at the center forward, dribbling pepe at the right wing. Samba boy coutinho at the back of auba. I once again repeat the premier League isn't ready for this terrific attack. A shrewd free signing for Arsenal.
RaiyanZaara
676
Thank you so much Willian, For what you have done for us. You stayed here for 7 years, helped us winning many titles, scored goals and assists. You are a Legend in Chelsea. I don't care what people say about you, you will forever be a blue, KTBFFH 💙💙
Lizcknpruz
570
good luck Willian may God bless you and make you prosper in a new chapter.
Ken_B
411
Willlian! Willian! Willian! Weldon and good luck. I’m seeing something similar with what happen to Liverpool which lead them to where they are now. Suarez go and everyone think they’re finish then klopp came and Countiho left but today they’re phenomenal amazing team. Chelsea lost Hazard and and Luiz they thought they’re finish then Lampard came now Willian is gone. Chelsea board should back Lampard in this transfer, I hate the way they’re slowing after arrival of Wener and Ziyech it has been rumor upon rumor knowing too well in a month time PL will start. They need to wake up and make the fans smile. Barrack can never be empty, soldiers go soldiers come
Feistygamer2000
311
Welcome to Arsenal Willian
JamesWalker
292
Arteta to Williams:- Get that Man a Gun.🔫🔥