Danny Drinkwater’s five-year deal with Chelsea expires this summer, and he is expected to depart the club.
The 32-year-old joined Chelsea from Leicester City in a £35 million transfer in 2017, although he only made 23 appearances for the club during his time there.
Drinkwater’s reputation at the club was tainted by many off-field issues throughout his loan stints at Burnley, Aston Villa, Turkish side Kasimpasa, and, most recently, Championship team Reading.
Drinkwater has now written an emotional parting statement to the club and its supporters, expressing remorse for how his tenure with the club has gone.
“It’s the end of my tenure at Chelsea… It’s weird how strange it feels to write this. There is no doubt that the outcome has disappointed myself, the club, and the supporters,” Drinkwater stated on Instagram.
“Injuries, how I’ve been handled, mistakes I’ve made, pitch difficulties, insufficient game time… the list of excuses could go on and on, but I wouldn’t and can’t alter what’s occurred.”
“I’m going to focus on the positives. Over the last five years, I’ve had the opportunity to play with some fantastic players, be coached by some fantastic managers, work with some fantastic staff, meet some fantastic people, live in some beautiful places, travel the world, and win some more silverware.”
“Football is a beautiful sport, but this was a commercial decision gone wrong for both sides, it’s as simple as that.”
“I apologize to Chelsea supporters for how this has turned out; I would have preferred for you to see me at my best in that shirt doing what I love.” “Best wishes, x.”
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