After 22 years, John Terry to leave Chelsea at end of season

John Terry will leave Chelsea at the end of the season, the player and the club have announced in a joint statement.

The former England captain, who has made 713 appearances for Chelsea, has been used sparingly by Antonio Conte this season.

He has played just 366 minutes in five Premier League games after signing a one-year contract extension last May.

A statement on Chelsea’s website on Monday confirmed that the 36-year-old will depart Stamford Bridge in the summer.

“After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club,” said Terry, in a statement.

“From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough. There will be opportunities for me to speak further about this over the coming weeks.

“I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.”

Terry’s last appearance for Chelsea was a six-minute outing against Everton on November 5.

“The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days.

“We had some really positive talks but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it’s the right time for me to leave. I’ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I.

“I feel I still have plenty to offer on the pitch but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited for me. I’m eager to carry on playing and so will be looking to continue with a new challenge. I will of course always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware.”

“Finally, words cannot describe the love I have for our football club and our amazing Chelsea fans. I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for the unbelievable support you’ve shown me over the years. You mean the world to me and every trophy we’ve won during my time at the club we’ve won together. I will never forget the incredible journey we’ve been on.

“Thank you so much for everything.”

Terry has also captained Chelsea a record 578 times and scored 40 Premier League goals – more than any other defender.

Terry won the Champions League, four Premier League titles, the Europa League, five FA Cups and three League Cups while at Stamford Bridge.

“Everyone at Chelsea would like to place on record our thanks to John for all he has done for this football club,” said Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia.

“He has been an outstanding player, inspirational captain and has always demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the cause.

“In that time, Chelsea has grown into one of the world’s top clubs and it is only right that John’s contribution is recognised. He will always be held in the highest regard by everybody at Stamford Bridge and we look forward to welcoming him back in the future.”