Chelsea's Edouard Mendy completes permanent transfer to Saudi Professional League side Al-Ahli

By India Today Sports DeskEdouard Mendy has bid farewell to Chelsea after an eventful three-year stay, as he has officially completed a permanent move to Saudi Professional League side Al-Ahli.

During his time at Stamford Bridge, Mendy played a crucial role in Chelsea’s triumphant journey to Champions League glory in 2021. The 31-year-old goalkeeper conceded only two goals in seven knockout matches, both of which were extraordinary strikes by Porto’s Mehdi Taremi and Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema.

Mendy’s exceptional performances earned him several accolades and recognition. He registered nine clean sheets in the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League, a record for a goalkeeper in their debut season in the prestigious competition. His achievements led to him being named UEFA Champions League Goalkeeper of the Season and The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper.

He also secured the second spot in the voting for the Yashin Trophy, an esteemed award honoring the finest goalkeepers in the game. This recognition placed him alongside Chelsea’s legendary goalkeeper Petr Cech.

In the following season, Mendy continued to shine. Chelsea triumphed in the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, with Mendy playing a pivotal role in their success. He also displayed heroics for Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final, saving the decisive penalty in the shootout.

Throughout his time at Chelsea, Mendy kept an impressive total of 30 clean sheets in 105 appearances, including important games in domestic finals and Champions League fixtures. He even achieved a remarkable feat of five consecutive shutouts in home matches, a record unmatched by any goalkeeper from an English club.

Mendy’s journey to the top of European football is a remarkable one, as he started his career in the lower tiers of French football and overcame periods without a club. His move to Al-Ahli marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career.