Chelsea players respond as emotional statement released before Arsenal transfer announcement

Chelsea players past and present have responded to Kepa Arrizabalaga's emotional statement he released ahead of confirmation of a move to Arsenal.

The goalkeeper has swapped blue for red with Arsenal signing the Spaniard for around £5million as back-up to compatriot David Raya following the conclusion of Neto's loan spell and his return to Bournemouth.

Kepa is an opportunistic signing by the Gunners and is set to be followed into Emirates Stadium by Brentford's Christian Norgaard along with Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta explain why Arsenal signed Kepa Arrizabalaga

READ MORE: Kepa Arrizabalaga's first words after completing Arsenal transfer as he dreams of big trophies

Now, he has taken to social media platform Instagram ahead of his impending move to the Gunners, with Chelsea team-mate Malo Gusto hitting the 'like' button on the post with former left-back Marcos Alonso replying with crying emojis.

Striker Nicolas Jackson also liked the message.

Former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech also liked the post, which read: "THANK YOU, CHELSEA. "After seven unforgettable years, the time has come to close a very special chapter in my life.

"Chelsea was my home, my family, and the place where I grew both as a footballer and as a person.

"I arrived full of dreams and I leave with unforgettable memories: titles like the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup… but above all, moments shared with incredible people on and off the pitch.

"Thank you to the coaches, the staff, my teammates, and most of all, to you, the fans. "Wearing this badge has been an honour and a source of pride.

"Now a new chapter begins, and I face it with the same passion and commitment as always. I leave with a heart full of gratitude. "With love and respect,

"Kepa Arrizabalaga."

Upon signing for Arsenal, Kepa told the club's website: "I'm really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming.

"The ambition that is shown in this club, when I talk with Mikel (Arteta) and Inaki (Cana), how much they show me their desire to win… I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it."