29 June 2023 , 00:00
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Edouard Mendy made a subtle dig at Todd Boehly after he failed to mention the American in his parting message following his departure from Chelsea.
The Senegal international has made the switch to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli on a permanent transfer after losing his place to Kepa Arrizabalaga as the club's first-choice goalkeeper. Mendy made 10 Premier League appearances last season, and started just once after the World Cup.
That came in a 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest in May, which proved to be his final appearance during a relatively successful three-year stint at Stamford Bridge. In that time, Mendy lifted the Champions League and helped them reach the Carabao Cup and FA Cup final in his second season.
However, Mendy's final campaign was one to forget. After his departure was confirmed, Mendy made sure to thank a host of figures from around the club in a post on social media. Despite including ex-owner Roman Abramovich, there was no mention for Boehly, who brought the Blues last summer.
"As I prepare to begin a new chapter in my career, it's hard to say goodbye," wrote the 31-year-old on Instagram. "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.
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"I want to sincerely thank [ex-owner] Roman [Abramovich], [ex-director] Marina [Granovskaia], [ex-advisor] Petr [Cech], Christophe [Lollichon, head of goalkeeping], 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."
Mendy was signed by Abramovich in 2020 as Chelsea tried to push on after their transfer embargo was lifted. In the same summer, Timo Werner and Kai Havertz both arrived as the Blues splashed the cash.
Edouard Mendy spent three years at Chelsea (Getty Images)However, Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK two years later after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, meaning Chelsea were in search of new owners. Boehly was the man to take over, although the Blues have struggled since, despite spending almost £600million on new players.
"A special thanks goes to all my teammates for the unforgettable journey we shared together," the post continued. "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."
Mendy follows former teammates N'Golo Kante and Kalidou Koulibaly out in the Middle-East, while Hakim Ziyech is expected to join them, with the Moroccan set to join Al-Nassr.