by Lewis Ambrose
Arsenal have completed the signing of Chelsea legend Petr Čech.
The goalkeeper joins Arsène Wenger’s men after 11 years at Stamford Bridge and against the wishes of Chelsea manager José Mourinho.
It’s official… @PetrCech has agreed to join @Arsenal! Full story here: http://t.co/09V3x81fiQ #WelcomeCech pic.twitter.com/Ov0UmAk2U5
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) June 29, 2015
Mourinho didn’t want to strengthen a rival but it is thought that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich sanctioned the move to thank Čech for his many years of service. In joining the club, Čech is certain to be number one – Arsenal’s first undisputed number one for almost a decade, in fact. The player now doesn’t have to relocate and will remain at a club which looks to challenge for the Premier League title – it’s no wonder he wanted the move. The goalkeeper confirmed the move via his personal Twitter account on Monday afternoon.
Very happy to announce that I have signed with @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/msvjEpyO36
— Petr Cech (@PetrCech) June 29, 2015
Coup
It is quite the coup for Arsenal, who have had to put up with players strengthening rival teams for years now.
Chelsea themselves have signed Ashley Cole from the Gunners, while ex-captain Cesc Fàbregas ultimately joined Chelsea via FC Barcelona.
The 33 year-old goalkeeper has had a glittering career to date, winning 13 domestic honours since he signed for Chelsea from Rennes in 2004, including four Premier League titles and the Champions League.
The goalkeeper has also won the Premier League Golden Glove on three occasions, most recently sharing the award with Arsenal goalkeeper and new teammate Wojciech Szczesny following the 2013/14 season.
The Czech international has won 114 caps for his country and joins his international captain Tomas Rosicky at Emirates Stadium.
Welcome to the biggest club in London, Petr!