N’Golo Kante criticises ‘rumours and lies’ in farewell letter after Al-Ittihad move

N’Golo Kante has cryptically slammed ‘rumours and lies’ while thanking Chelsea’s supporters in a farewell letter following his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.  

Kante’s move to Saudi Arabia was confirmed on Tuesday evening, bringing an end to his seven-year stay at Stamford Bridge.

During his time at the club, Kante won the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup.

Kante insisted he will ‘never forget’ Chelsea’s supporters in his farewell letter, describing the Blues as a ‘legendary club.

The Frenchman suggested he and the team had been the victim of ‘rumours and lies’ recently.

N’Golo Kante has joined Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad after his Chelsea deal expired

Kante penned a farewell letter to Chelsea supporters following his departure from the club

‘The time for me has come to open a new chapter in my career,’ Kante wrote.

‘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 been with me during these seven seasons in this legendary club.

‘Only good memories, great victories and memorable titles won by your side.

‘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 by 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.’

Kante claimed he will ‘never forget’ Chelsea’s fans for their support during his seven seasons

Kante joined Chelsea in 2016 after playing a pivotal role in Leicester City’s improbable title triumph the previous season.

In his first year at the club, Kante won the league again under Antonio Conte, and continued to add to his collection by lifting the FA Cup and Europa League in the following two seasons, while also winning the World Cup with France.

It is his performances in Chelsea’s run to Champions League glory in 2021, though, that Kante will be most fondly remembered for by Chelsea fans.

Kante’s final season at Chelsea was badly disrupted by injuries, and the 32-year-old was only able to play seven Premier League matches.

The 32-year-old left the Blues at the end of the season, after protracted contract talks with the west London club.

Chelsea co-directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley thanked Kante for his service at the club.

‘N’Golo’s impact and influence during his time at Chelsea cannot be overstated,’ a statement read.

‘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.’