Cech says goodbye to fans, thanks Chelsea for an 'incredible' 11 years

"I thought this would never happen," begins Petr Cech's goodbye note to Chelsea fans.  Most Chelsea fans, I'd guess, would begin their thoughts and comments in a similar fashion.  "...I thought I'd hang my gloves and boots one day and finish my career [at Chelsea].  But life doesn't always turn out the way you think it will."'

My personal message to @ChelseaFC fans pic.twitter.com/NYPD34Vuag

— Petr Cech (@PetrCech) June 29, 2015

Farewell notes come in all shapes and sizes.  Cech's note is very matter of fact, very professional, just like the man himself.  He tells the story of the past season, one that we're all familiar with by now.  The keys to the kingdom were handed over to Thibaut Courtois, but Petr Cech is far too good to just while away his days on the bench.  As a thank you for his service, Chelsea (and Roman Abramovich, whom Cech thanks specifically) allowed the living legend to choose his next club, even if that's Arsenal.

Cech ends his note with a message for the fans.  If there's ever any doubt that he understands the magnitude of his decision to move across London to one our biggest rivals, this should put those doubts to rest.

"But most important of all - a huge thank you goes to all the Chelsea fans.  I did everything for you and you gave me your love back.  I'll never forget it.  It will stay with me forever.  We will meet again but this time I will be in the other goal - I hope you will remember our history and understand it is time for me to begin a new adventure."

Farewell, Petr Cech, and thanks for everything.