Former Chelsea talisman Didier Drogba has taken his talents to the Chinese Super League after signing a two-and-a-half year deal with Shanghai Shenhua, according to BBC Sport.
“I have considered all the offers I have received in the past few weeks, but feel that Shanghai Shenhua FC is the right move for me at this time,” said Drogba.
“I am looking forward to a new challenge, to experiencing a new culture, and excited about the new developments in the Chinese Super League.
“When Chelsea went to China last year, we had a great time and I met some amazing fans. I hope to help promote Chinese football around the world and further improve the links between China and Africa.”
Drogba’s career at Chelsea was surely highlighted by his final shift for the 2011-12 European champions.
Not only did the Ivorian bag the equalizer in the UEFA Champions League final for Roberto Di Matteo’s side, but he also netted the winning penalty.
All things considered, Didier Drogba undoubtedly sealed his place in Chelsea history forever at the Allianz Arena on Saturday, 19 May.
With that said, all good things must come to an end, and Drogba’s time at Chelsea is no different.
Now then, the former Marseille hit-man will play alongside former Chelsea team-mate Nicolas Anelka at Shanghai Shenhua.
Anelka joined the Chinese Super League giants via Chelsea in January 2012.
Prior to joining Shanghai, Anelka, like Drogba, played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including: Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Liverpool and Chelsea.
Can the two former Chelsea mates form an unbreakable and unstoppable partnership in the Chinese Super League?
That remains to be seen, but this move was surely not designed to make Shanghai Shenhua one of the best football club’s on the planet. It was, and remains, strictly business.
On that note, Chinese businessman Zhu Jun, who owns a majority stake in Shanghai Shenhua, made sure that he welcomed the Ivorian to China with arms wide open.
“We have been wanting to sign Didier for a while and are very happy that it has finally happened,” revealed Zhu Jun.
“He is an incredible player, who has won so many trophies in his career. We feel that his experience and ability will be a very valuable asset to our squad.
“Shanghai is one of the most influential cities in the world and we are very excited to welcome Didier here.”
Will Didier Drogba be a success at Shanghai Shenhua?
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
