Didier Drogba seals lucrative move to Shanghai Shenhua

Didier Drogba

Ivory Coast international Didier Drogba has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua after leaving Chelsea on a free transfer.

The 34-year-old confirmed the news on his website, announcing that he will join the club next month following a successful eight-year spell at Stamford Bridge.

Drogba will reunite with former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka, who joined Shanghai Shenhua in December, and it’s believed that he will earn around £200,000 per week.

"I have considered all the offers I have received in the past few weeks, but feel that Shanghai is the right move for me at this time," the veteran striker commented. "I'm looking forward to a new challenge, to a new culture, and excited about the new developments in the Chinese Super League."

Drogba scored the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final last month as Chelsea were crowned European champions for the first time in their history.

Several days later he confirmed his intention to leave, telling the Blues’ website: “It has been a very difficult decision for me to make and I am very proud of what we have achieved but the time is right for a new challenge for me.

“I wish the club all the best and continued success for the future - you will always be in my heart.”

The powerful striker leaves the club having scored 157 goals in 341 appearances, making him Chelsea’s fourth all-time highest goalscorer.

During his time in west London he won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two Carling Cups and a Champions League winners’ medal.

Drogba hopes that his move will help to promote Chinese football around the world, as well as improve links between China and Africa, and is expected to make one of his first appearances for his new employers against Manchester United during the Red Devils’ pre-season tour next month.

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