Didier Drogba has made his departure from Chelsea official as he intends on leaving the English club in summer with the Chinese Shanghai Shenhua being his probable destination.

The 34 years old striker was signed by Chelsea back in 2004 with a transfer fee of £24 million, the Ivorian scored the crucial penalty which gave his side their 1rst ever Champions League and just as important was the impact that Roberto Di Matteo made as soon as he was given the role of coach.

“I wanted to put an end to all the speculation and confirm that I am leaving Chelsea,” Drogba told the club’s official website. “It has been a very difficult decision for me to make and I am very proud of what we have achieved but the time is right for a new challenge for me.

“As a team we have accomplished so much and have won every single trophy possible.

“Saturday was a very special moment for everyone at the club and for all the fans, and I am very proud to have played my part in bringing many trophies to this club, which has been my home for the last eight years.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the club especially Roman [Abramovich, owner] and my team-mates, many of whom have become very close friends and will be my friends for life.

Throughout his entire career in the Premier League he scored 157 times in 341 appearances for ‘The Blues’ and snatching 4 FA Cup, 3 Premier League titles, 2 League Cups and his latest addition the highly rated Champions League.

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