Ola Aina thanks Chelsea for all the great times and guidance in farewell note

Academy graduate Ola Aina joined Torino FC in a €10m transfer a couple days ago, bringing to an official end his time at Chelsea, twelve years after joining at the under-11 level. Now 22 and a full-fledged international with Nigeria, Aina joins an improving Torino outfit who will be looking to make the push for Europe next season.

His transfer, while not unexpected, underlines and highlights some of Chelsea’s bad decision-making in the transfer market, having essentially traded Aina and tens of millions for the lesser spotted (and even lesser used) Davide Zappacosta.

In any case, Aina posted a farewell note on his Instagram today, thanking all his teammates and coaches at Cobham as one normally would in these scenarios. He does call a few them out in person, including Michael Beale, who’s coaching with Rangers nowadays, Antonio Conte, who gave Ola his senior debut, and of course Eddie Newton, who’s the Loan Army Godfather these days.

Good luck in Italy, Ola! Perhaps we’ll meet again someday soon.

“The start of a new chapter. Words can not express how I feel. Joining the club as a ten year old Ola was the best thing that happened to me combined with playing football for the team which I support was just amazing.

“Now I’m 22, I look back on all the great times I’ve had from: training, going on tours every year and spending time with some amazing players I looked up too most of my life.

“I’ve also had the pleasure of playing and training with some great players in the 1st team, but most importantly the players that I can call bros from the academy over the years. My best highlights will always be the memories of growing up and becoming a man whilst also improving my craft with these players.

“I want to say a big thank you to all the coaches / medical staff and more, that I’ve had through out my years at Chelsea. I am very grateful for constantly helping me out and taking an interest in me. I would like to thank my first coach Joe Edwards for everything he’s helped me with over the years also; Micky Beale, ciril (got me using my left foot), Adi Viveash (our farther figure) Andy Myers, Jody Morris, Dermot Drummy and Antonio Conte (for all my appearances for Chelsea).

“Lastly, a big thank you to Eddie Newton and the loan staff 12 years have gone so quick and I’m forever grateful to Chelsea FC - (my boyhood club) this place will forever be in my heart.

“Until next time I wish this club all the success in the future, love you guys @chelseafc - Mr.Lulu”