End of an era as Cech seals Arsenal move

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Petr Cech’s move to Arsenal after 11 memorable years at Chelsea has been confirmed.

Arsenal, who have signed the goalkeeper for around £11m, announced on Monday afternoon that Cech, 33, has agreed a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium.

After arriving from Rennes in 2004, he made more than 400 appearances for the Blues, keeping an incredible 162 clean sheets as well as winning four Premier League titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups, the Champions League and the Europa League.

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However, there had been doubts about his future at the club since he was displaced as first-choice keeper by Thibaut Courtois.

Cech, who had one year remaining on his Chelsea contract, made only 16 appearances for them last season.

Confirming and explaining his departure, Cech wrote a personal message to Chelsea fans which he posted on Twitter.

He wrote that he felt had to move on for “new challenges” and added that he “couldn’t be more proud” of what he achieved during his time at Chelsea but that it was “time to begin a new adventure”.

Cech is only the sixth player to move from Chelsea to Arsenal since the war.

“I’m really excited about joining Arsenal and can’t wait to join up for pre-season,” he told the Gunners’ website.

“When Arsène Wenger spoke to me about his ambitions for this club, and how he saw me as part of this team, the decision was clear.”

Arsenal boss Wenger said: “Petr Cech is a player that I have admired for a long time and I am very pleased that he has decided to join us.

“He has proven over many seasons that he is one of the outstanding keepers in the world and he will add great strength to our squad.”

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