In full: Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s emotional goodbye to Chelsea after AC Milan transfer

Ruben Loftus-Cheek penned a proper goodbye message to Chelsea after ending his 19-year association with the club to join AC Milan.

The 27-year-old signed a four-year contract at the San Siro until June 2027 in a deal worth £15 million plus add-ons.

Loftus-Cheek was a pioneer for the Chelsea academy after breaking into the first-team and making his debut under Jose Mourinho in December 2014 when he came on as a second half substitute against Sporting CP in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge.

He made 155 appearances for the Chelsea first-team, scoring 13 and registering 18 assists, with the England international winning two Premier League titles, the Europa League, Super Cup, FA Youth Cup (twice), UEFA Youth League and Under-21 Premier League.

Loftus-Cheek’s time in England came to an end and the Cobham graduate wrote an extensive farewell to express his gratitude and love to Chelsea.

What Ruben Loftus-Cheek in full

“I don’t even know where to begin with this. I’ve been at Chelsea since the age of eight and to come through the ranks and play senior football at this club… there’s just no better feeling. I’ve truly gone from being a boy to a man at this club over the last 19 years and it’s hard to say goodbye to so many people that have helped guide and shape me as the person and player I am today.”

“It’s always been my dream to play for Chelsea so being able to win the FA Youth Cup and UEFA Youth Cup during my days in the academy, to then making my first team debut and winning the Premier League & Europa League during my senior career, is something that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

“I would like to thank everyone associated with Chelsea football club who have helped me during my career. To the coaches that I’ve worked with, the backroom staff and my teammates, to the people I’ve seen day to day at the training ground over the last 19 years, thank you all.

“To the fans, you’ve supported me and had my back from day one, no words will ever be enough to tell you how much that has meant to my family and I. I wish nothing but the best to everyone here and hope to see the club get back on the right path and winning silverware as soon as possible.

“It’s time for me to begin a new adventure in football, to live in a new country and experience a new culture, but I really do hope our paths will cross again in the future.

“Thank you for everything.”