Edouard Mendy completes £16m Chelsea departure to join Saudi side Al-Ahli

Edouard Mendy has joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli on a three-year contract from Chelsea.

The 31-year-old leaves Chelsea after three seasons at the club following his arrival in the summer of 2020 from Stade Rennais.

Mendy cemented his spot as the club’s number one and went on to make 105 appearances in all competitions for the Blues, playing a huge part in their 2021 Champions League final triumph against Man City. He won the Super Cup and Club World Cup during his time in west London. Mendy also collected the award for The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper for 2021.

Following the appointment of Graham Potter, Mendy saw Kepa Arrizabalaga reclaim the number one spot due to the Senegal international being injured, leaving Mendy having to remain patient for minutes throughout the season.

A goalkeeping overhaul was expected this summer and after Mendy failed to agree a new contract during the 2022/23 season, his future was uncertain. Now he has completed a transfer worth £16 million to Al-Ahli, joining the likes of N’Golo Kante and Kalidou Koulibaly who have also moved to Saudi Arabia.

Mendy has signed a three-year contract until June 2026 with the Saudi side.

He took to Instagram to say goodbye to Chelsea, writing: “As I prepare to begin a new chapter in my career, it’s hard to say goodbye. It has been an incredible three years wearing the Chelsea jersey, during which we achieved great success, including winning the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

“I want to sincerely thank Roman, Marina, Petr, Christophe, and the entire staff who made it possible for me to represent this prestigious club. I am thankful to my coaches and all the staffs for the invaluable lessons and growth I experienced.

‘A special thanks goes to all my teammates for the unforgettable journey we shared together.
I also want to extend my deep gratitude to all the fans for their unbelievable support throughout my time at Chelsea.

“Although it’s time for me to turn a new page. I sincerely wish the club continued success with the new owners and numerous titles in the years to come.”