Chelsea: Lampard Out, Fabregas In?

Photo: Chelsea FC.

Frank Lampard has announced his exit from Chelsea.

Chelsea’s Frank Lampard, 35, has confirmed that he’ll be leaving the London club when his contract expires at the end of June. Lampard, Chelsea’s all time top scorer with 211 goals, has announced that he is ready for a new challenge.

 

There is speculation that New York City FC – who have already snapped up Atlético Madrid’s David Villa – are interested in the Brit midfielder.

Lampard said in a statement: “When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success.

“This club has become part of my life and I have so many people to thank for the opportunity. Firstly, Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun this experience.”

The player also to the opportunity to thank some of the key Stamford Bridge figures throughout his Chelsea career:

“Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our Club and took us all to new levels. His desire to push the Club to the top of the football world has rubbed off on everyone.

“All the managers and coaches who have helped me develop my game during the time I have been here. I have learnt from every one of them.

“All the brilliant team mates who I have been lucky enough to train and play alongside for so long. Not just their football qualities but also the friendships I have gained along the way.

“I’d also like to give a special mention to all the staff and people behind the scenes at the club who do not receive the glory but without them the Club would simply not function.

“The club will move forward, and as a Chelsea man I have no doubt that with the quality of the players that are there, they will continue with the success that we have all enjoyed over the past seasons.”

Lampard concluded: “Finally and most importantly, I would like to thank the Chelsea fans. I believe they are the greatest fans in world football. You have supported me from the moment I arrived. Not only on the pitch, but in difficult moments in my personal life off the pitch. I will never forget.

“I feel honoured to have shared so many special times with you. Bolton, Amsterdam, Munich, the list goes on and on. I, and we as a team, could not have achieved those moments without your support.

“Whatever the next challenge is for me I will always be amongst you and have Chelsea in my home and in my heart. Hopefully I will get to see you all soon to say goodbye properly. In the meantime thank you for the memories and keep making history!”

While one of Chelsea’s star players is set to make his exit, manager Jose Mourinho is said to be considering making a bid for FC Barcelona’s Cesc Fabregas to replace Lampard.

Reportedly, the Catalan club have made Fabregas available for transfer, with former team Arsenal and Manchester United in a bidding war for the Spanish player. 

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