Chelsea have confirmed the departure of Edouard Mendy with a classy statement paying tribute to the goalkeeper.
The 31-year-old has completed a move to Saudi Arabian Al-Ahli for a reported £16 million. The 2022/23 campaign was a difficult one for Mendy, with his minutes limited, but he played a significant role in the Blues' Champions League triumph two years ago.
As part of the statement announcing his exit, Chelsea acknowledged his accomplishments and mentioned the type of character he was. The lower part of the statement read: "Having started his career in the lower tiers of French football – and even spending several months without a club – Mendy rose to the pinnacle of European football with Chelsea.
"A hugely likeable character on and off the pitch, he will always have a place in our history for his significant contributions to our 2021 Champions League triumph. For that, and for everything else, we are grateful. Good luck, Edou!"
Mendy made 105 appearances for the Blues with his final game coming in the 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest. In the historic Champions League campaign, the Senegal international conceded just two goals in the knockout stages with a clean sheet coming in the final against Manchester City.
Despite losing his place in the team in the last campaign, Mendy won numerous trophies and was handed several notable awards. On a personal note, he was named UEFA Champions League Goalkeeper of the Season, and Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper in 2021.
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Alongside being able to call himself a Champions League winner, Mendy also won the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup during his spell in west London. His departure means new manager Mauricio Pochettino is on the hunt for a replacement after making the decision to select Kepa Arrizabalaga as his No.1 option for the 2023/24 season.
In between the sticks, Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili, Porto star Diogo Costa, Andre Onana of Inter and AC Milan's Mike Maignan have all been linked as potential acquisitions in goal for the Blues.
