London : Premier League club Chelsea bid farewell to their talented goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, as he completes a move to Saudi Professional League side Al-Ahli on a three-year contract. Mendy leaves Chelsea after spending three successful seasons with the club, achieving remarkable milestones and securing silverware, including the prestigious UEFA Champions League title.
During his time at Chelsea, the Senegal national played a pivotal role in the team’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League. Mendy conceded just two goals in the seven knockout matches, showcasing his exceptional goalkeeping skills on the grandest stage of European club football.
In the 2020/21 season, Mendy recorded an impressive nine clean sheets in the Champions League, a feat unmatched by any other goalkeeper in their debut season in the competition. This remarkable achievement solidified his position as one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in Europe’s elite club competition.
Mendy’s outstanding performances did not go unnoticed, as he was honoured with the UEFA Champions League Goalkeeper of the Season award. He also clinched the Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper accolade, further highlighting his remarkable contributions to the sport.
Besides his success in the Champions League, Mendy also played a crucial role in Chelsea’s triumph in the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup. His consistent performances extended to the domestic front as well, as he kept clean sheets throughout the 2021/23 season, including both domestic finals.
Mendy’s remarkable run in the Champions League saw him secure five consecutive shutouts in home fixtures, a feat achieved for the first time by a goalkeeper representing an English club. His 30th clean sheet for Chelsea came in his 54th appearance, with only the legendary Petr Cech achieving that milestone in fewer matches.
Despite limited playing time last season, Mendy surpassed the 100-game mark for Chelsea, featuring in a total of 105 matches, with an impressive 49 games ending with clean sheets.
In addition to his club success, Mendy made a significant impact on the international stage, playing a crucial role in Senegal’s triumph in the Africa Cup of Nations final, where he made a decisive save in the penalty shootout.
As Edouard Mendy embarks on a new chapter in his career with Al-Ahli, Chelsea fans will fondly remember his contributions and his crucial role in the team’s recent successes. His departure leaves big gloves to fill at Stamford Bridge, and the club will undoubtedly be on the lookout for a worthy successor to continue the legacy of excellence between the posts.
Comments