John Obi Mikel has confirmed his move to China on Twitter after signing for Tianjin TEDA.
Mikel had been at Stamford Bridge for 11 years and had a hugely successful career with the Blues.
The Nigeria captain penned down an emotional letter to Chelsea fans after confirming his exit from the club.
The 29-year-old will earn a whopping £140,000-per-week at the Chinese Super League.
Mikel wrote, “I say goodbye as a Champion of England, a Champion of Europe and proud captain of my national team.”
“To play in the Premier League, the best league in the world, is every professional’s ambition. But to play for Chelsea, to become part of the Chelsea family, to work with some of the best managers and players in the world, has truly been an honour.”
Mikel thanked the club staff and all those who supported him throughout his time at the Stamford Bridge.
He also reminisced about some of his greatest moments at the club.
“None of this would have been possible without the wider club’s support. to Mr Abramovic, the club’s staff, coaches, physios, and to the managers I played under at Chelsea, I want to say thank you,” he continued.
“But my biggest thanks must go to the Blues fans. You brought me into the Chelsea family, you sung my name, and were there with us every step of the way. Thanks to your support, on nights like in Munich, you made the impossible possible.”
Mikel became the second Chelsea player to leave for China this transfer window after Oscar signed for Shanghai SIPG for a record £60 million fee.
“To everyone at Chelsea – goodbye and thank you. You will always be part of who I am, and I wish you the best of luck. I could not be happier to be saying goodbye with the club back where it belongs – top of the league.”
“Keep the blue flag flying high!”
