Chelsea veteran goalkeeper, Petr Cech has completed his shocking switch to Arsenal on a long-term contract for a fee believed to be £11 million, making him the most expensive keeper in the club’s history.
The 33-year-old Czech international goalkeeper, who made over 400 appearances during his 11 years at Stamford Bridge after joining from French club Rennes, took the option to move to the Emirates Stadium following last season’s loss of first team spot to young Belgian goalie, Thibaut Courtois.
Soon after the deal was confirmed on Monday by the Gunners, the embattled goalkeeper expressed delight in the prospect of first team action in a top side like Arsenal. “I have the same commitment to football, the same motivation and the same hunger for success as I had at the beginning of my career, and I love the challenges brought by the top quality players you face while playing in the Premier League,” he declared.
Cech confessed that he was thrilled by Arsene Wenger’s plans for the club and his prospective role in it. “I’m really excited about joining Arsenal Football Club and can’t wait to join up for pre-season,” he said.
Cech, whose first match for Arsenal could be the Community Shield against Chelsea at Wembley on August 2, was full of praises for his new club. His words: “Arsenal is a team that challenge for the top and it definitely matches my ambition and personal motivation. I believe at this time of my career I made a good choice and will have the success I would love to have.”
Arsene Wenger also spoke of his strong admiration for his new acquisition.”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,” the French gaffer said.
During his time with Chelsea, Cech’s haul of 13 major trophies included four Premier League titles and four FA Cups, as well as the 2012 Champions League.
In the same period, Arsenal had to make do with three FA Cup triumphs, including a 4-0 victory over Aston Villa in last season’s final.
Neither Wojciech Szczesny nor David Ospina has been completely convincing between the posts for Arsenal, with many pundits believing Wenger needed to sign a top-class goalkeeper if the Gunners were to challenge for the Premier League title.
Prior to Cech’s move across London, Chelsea’s captain John Terry said he would improve Arsenal, who finished third in the Premier League last season, by 12 to 15 points. “If they (Arsenal) do get Petr that will strengthen them for sure. He will save them 12 to 15 points a season,” Terry Said.
Arsenal finished 12 points behind Chelsea last season.
By Olisemeka Obeche
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