Noni Madueke has thanked Chelsea fans for their criticism of him ahead of his £52million move to Arsenal.
The winger praised Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, stating that it was a privilege to play under him, and thanked other members of staff.
Madueke also expressed his gratitude for the Chelsea supporters that backed him as well as the team-mates he played alongside.
However, his comments about fans who criticised him may not be received well at Stamford Bridge.
Madueke wrote on Instagram: ‘Dear Chelsea Football Club,
‘I want to thank you for the Last 3 or so years. To every staff member that helped me along this journey, thank you. To my teammates thank you for everything, I leave with only love and admiration for you guys. We achieved so much this season and I honestly wish you guys nothing but the best.
‘To Enzo Maresca, it was a privilege to play under you, thank you for trying to better me as a player and as a person. Lastly thank you to every single Chelsea fan. Thank you for the love, the praise and also the criticism, I appreciate it all. I leave here with nothing but fond memories.
‘Love NM11.’
Madueke joined Chelsea from PSV in January 2023 and went on to play 92 games for the Blues, while he scored 20 goals and provided nine assists.
He won the Conference League with Chelsea last season and also featured in their successful Club World Cup campaign although he wasn’t involved in the final as he neared his move to Arsenal.
The England international is set to become Arsenal’s fourth signing of the summer after Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.
Arsenal are also working on the signing of Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.
The signing of Madueke has been criticsed by some Arsenal fans, with his price tag being called into question.
However, others believe that the 23-year-old could be a useful addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Madueke could provide cover for Bukayo Saka on the right wing and may also be an option on the left flank for the Gunners.
His first return to Stamford Bridge as an Arsenal player could come when the sides meet in the Premier League in November.
Arsenal have signed a host of players from Chelsea in recent years, including Kepa, Raheem Sterling (on loan), Kai Havertz, Jorginho and David Luiz.
