Al-Ittihad announce N’Golo Kante signing as Chelsea exit confirmed

N’Golo Kante has left Chelsea to join Saudi side Al-Ittihad, it has been confirmed.

The 32-year-old leaves Chelsea after seven seasons at Stamford Bridge, having arrived from Leicester City in 2016.

Kante went on to make 269 appearances during his time at Stamford Bridge, winning the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, Super Cup and Club World Cup.

Despite being offered a new deal by Chelsea, an agreement was unable to be reached with the France international and Kante opted to accept a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia, worth €25 million-a-year according to Fabrizio Romano.

Al-Ittihad, who have also signed Karim Benzema, confirmed the acquisition of Kante which will see him begin on July 1.

A club statement read: “Ittihad Club has announced the signing of French international player N’Golo Kanté, the former Chelsea player who won the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 UEFA Champions League. Kanté has signed a three-year contract with the club. The contract was finalized on Tuesday, June 20th, after Kant completed his medical tests at a specialized medical center in Dubai. This move comes as Ittihad, who recently won the Saudi Professional League, aims to strengthen their squad.

“Kante’s addition to Al-Ittihad is considered one of the most high-profile and impactful signings in the club’s history. It is part of the club’s efforts to establish itself as a top choice for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League. The team is also preparing for a significant international tournament, the FIFA Club World Cup, which will take place at the end of this year.

“Ittihad Club wishes Kante success in achieving the club’s goals and fulfilling the expectations of all the club’s fans and supporters during his time with the team.”