N’GOLO KANTE has hit out at “rumours and lies” in his Chelsea farewell letter.
The Frenchman has left the Blues after seven years at Stamford Bridge to join Al-Ittihad.
Kante, 32, has penned a four-year, £86million contract to move to the Saudi Pro League.
After his free transfer was confirmed, Kante posted an emotional letter to his Instagram page.
The midfielder thanked fans, team-mates, managers and staff for his many successes in West London – while also taking a cryptic swipe at “rumours and lies” faced during his time with the Blues.
He wrote: “Goodbye Chelsea.
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“The time for me has come to open a new chapter in my career.
“But before that, it is so important for me to say thank you to the great and beautiful family of Chelsea.
“Fans, players, managers, medical staff, board members, all those who have been with me during these last seven seasons in this legendary club.
“Only good memories, great victories and memorable titles won by your side.
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“From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much, I will never forget you.
“And of course last but not least, I thank my family, my friends, who have always been on my side in good and bad times.
“Without forgetting my agent, Karim as well as my advisers Rachid and Driss who have given me such a precious support since my beginnings and have been a major part in my success.
“These past times have not been easy for us and our family, but we were able to stay united to face rumours and lies.
“See you soon for new adventures on the pitch with Al Ittihad and the French National Team.
“N’Golo.”
Upon Kante’s Stamford Bridge departure being confirmed, co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: “N’Golo’s impact and influence during his time at Chelsea cannot be overstated.
“His tireless performances in midfield contributed to several trophy wins and has guaranteed him a place in the club’s history. We wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter in his career.”
Kante joined Chelsea in a £32m deal in 2016 after playing a major role in Leicester’s historic title win the previous season.
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He went on to play 269 times for the Blues, winning the Prem, Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup.
The 2018 World Cup winner will play alongside former France team-mate Karim Benzema at Al-Ittihad.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
