John Terry confirms decision to leave Chelsea at the end of the season

This time of the year is usually when questions regarding John Terry’s contract start popping up in the press. Last year, Terry had initially announced that he wouldn’t be signing a new deal; some might call it a good publicity move, some might say he was genuinely distraught that he wouldn’t be continuing at the club he’s been part of since he was a boy. Nevertheless, Terry did land a one-year extension to his contract after all, presumably after discussions involving incoming manager, Antonio Conte.

This year, news of Terry’s future has come out in a more official manner and with a definite air of finality to it. That’s right, this time our Captain, Leader and Legend is set to end his 19-year stint as part of the Chelsea first team at the end of the season.

‘After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club. From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough. There will be opportunities for me to speak further about this over the coming weeks.

'I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.

'The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days. We had some really positive talks but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it's the right time for me to leave. I’ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I. I feel I still have plenty to offer on the pitch but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited for me. I’m eager to carry on playing and so will be looking to continue with a new challenge. I will of course always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware.

'Finally, words cannot describe the love I have for our football club and our amazing Chelsea fans. I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for the unbelievable support you've shown me over the years. You mean the world to me and every trophy we've won during my time at the club we've won together. I will never forget the incredible journey we've been on. Thank you so much for everything.'

- John Terry (source: Chelsea FC)

It’s heartening to see that Terry acknowledges that his relationship with the club will most certainly continue, which is also reinforced by director, Marina Granovskaia.

‘Everyone at Chelsea would like to place on record our thanks to John for all he has done for this football club. He has been an outstanding player, inspirational captain and has always demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the cause.

‘In that time, Chelsea has grown into one of the world’s top clubs and it is only right that John’s contribution is recognised. He will always be held in the highest regard by everybody at Stamford Bridge and we look forward to welcoming him back in the future.’

- Marina Granovskaia

While it might appear that the writing was on the wall, given his extremely diminished playing role this season, it’s good to have closure on Terry’s future before the close of the season. It’s only fitting, and enables the club to give him the send-off that he deserves. Hopefully, that’ll be with him lifting the Premier League trophy, for one last time.