Petr Cech signs for Arsenal: The goalkeeper's statement in full - 'I'd like to thank Mr Abramovich from the bottom of my heart'

'Thank you for an incredible 11 years'

Petr Cech has joined Arsenal (arsenal.com)

Petr Cech has signed for Arsenal for a reported £11m.

The 33-year-old leaves the Blues after 11 trophy-laden years at the club. As a goodwill gesture, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich allowed Cech to decide his own destination when he left, with PSG also interested.

Cech's personal message to Chelsea fans

Cech's preference was to stay in London - PSG were also interested in the Czech international.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said: “Petr Cech is a player that I have admired for a long time and I am very pleased that he has decided to join us. He has proven over many seasons that he is one of the outstanding keepers in the world and he will add great strength to our squad.”

Cech made over 400 appearances during 11 years at Stamford Bridge.

The goalkeeper said: “I’m really excited about joining Arsenal Football Club and can't wait to join up for pre-season. I have the same commitment to football, the same motivation and the same hunger for success as I had at the beginning of my career, and I love the challenges brought by the top quality players you face while playing in the Premier League. When Arsène Wenger spoke to me about his ambitions for this club, and how he saw me as part of this team, the decision was clear.”