Joining Arsenal from Chelsea was the hardest decision I ever made – but I had my reasons

Leaving Chelsea for Arsenal was an immensely difficult decision for this popular Blues icon

By Fasika Zelealem · Football London

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 4:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Petr Cech cited the challenge of winning trophies as his motivation for joining Arsenal from Chelsea.
Cech chose to leave Stamford Bridge after losing his starting spot to Thibaut Courtois in 2014-15.
The goalkeeper made 494 appearances for Chelsea and won 13 major honors across 11 seasons.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former goalkeeper Petr Cech explained that his desire to win the Premier League and Champions League motivated his move from Chelsea to Arsenal in 2015. After losing his starting place to Thibaut Courtois during the 2014-15 season, Cech accepted an opportunity from manager Arsene Wenger to continue playing at the highest level.

Cech spent 11 years at Stamford Bridge, making 494 appearances and winning 13 major honors. Although he did not secure a league or European title with Arsenal, he made 139 appearances for the Gunners and won the FA Cup in 2017 before retiring in 2019.

Read the full article on Football London

Joining Arsenal from Chelsea was the hardest decision I ever made – but I had my reasons

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