By Chris Wright
“I must go now, for my work here is done”
As some fella once said: Go out on top and always leave ’em wanting more. Didier Drogba has just confirmed via the Chelsea website that, after eight long years at the club, he is to leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer when his contract dwindles to nothing on June 30th:
“I wanted to put an end the speculation and confirm that I am leaving Chelsea. It has been a very difficult decision for me to make and I am very proud of what we have achieved, but the time is right for a new challenge for me.
“As a team we have accomplished so much and have won every single trophy possible. [The Champions League Final] was a very special moment for everyone at the club and for all the fans. I am very proud to have played my part in bringing many trophies to this club, which has been my home for the last eight years.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the club, especially Roman Abramovich and my team-mates.”
Drogba wanted another two years, Abramovich was only willing to offer him one – hence the parting of ways.
So, eight seasons, 157 goals, three Premier League titles, two Premier League golden boots, four FA Cups, two League Cups and one big fat Champions League-winning penalty later (not too shabby a way to go out, eh?), the Drog has been released into the wild and will more than likely put himself out to pasture in a China for a couple of years as he winds down on £400,000-a-week – though we imagine a few more illustrious suitors may come knocking over the summer. Word is Barcelona think they may be able to pry one more year out of him. Just saying.
Does he leave Chelsea a legend? You bet your sweet caboose he does! We won’t pretend that he didn’t have his flaws, but still – there goes one of the most genuinely fearsome strikers to have ever graced the English game.
Farewell and bon voyage Didier. You will be missed.