Maren Mjelde broke down in tears in an emotional parting message to Chelsea fans after announcing she would leave the club this summer.
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Mjelde to leave Chelsea after seven yearsHonoured against Bristol this weekendHas emotional parting message to fansWHAT HAPPENED?
Chelsea announced on Friday that Norwegian international Mjelde's seven-year spell with the club would end at the conclusion of the season. The 34-year-old has played 140 times for the club and won 12 trophies along the way but her time at the Blues is nearing an end. Following the announcement, the defender posted a teary message to Chelsea and the fans, thanking them for the "best years" of her life.
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She told the club's website: "It's been seven great years. I came to the club in 2017. It was a new journey for me, coming to England, to London, playing for such a big club as Chelsea. I think when I look back at all my years, it's been ups and downs but it's been more ups than downs – it's been a hell of a ride."
After breaking down in tears and admitting she was, "So bad at this", Mjelde added: "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It's been the best years of my life. Thank you."
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Mjelde, who also played as a midfielder, has enjoyed a hugely successful period in west London following her move from Avaldsnes IL. She played her part in winning the Women's Super League five times and a host of domestic cups, too. Incidentally, the club say they will honour her achievements in their final home league game of the season against Bristol City on Sunday.