Arnesen to depart Chelsea

Chelsea have announced sporting director Frank Arnesen will leave the club at the end of the season.

The Dane, who joined the reigning English Premier League champions in 2005 from London rivals Tottenham, had originally been appointed chief talent scout at Chelsea.

But his responsibilities increased under current manager Carlo Ancelotti, working closely with the first team in support of the Italian.

He becomes the second high-profile staff member to leave the club after assistant coach Ray Wilkins was sacked on November 11.

But Arnesen’s duties for Chelsea will not end until the season finishes, and his departure appeared far more amicable than that of Wilkins.

“Frank has spoken to me several times over the past year with regards to seeking new challenges, so his decision comes as no surprise to us,” Chelsea Chairman Bruce Buck said.

“Frank has done an exceptional job here at Chelsea over the last six years and the incredibly strong academy and youth system Frank leaves behind him is a fitting tribute to his time at Chelsea.”

“Frank has told us he has thoroughly enjoyed his time at Chelsea and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed having him. On behalf of everyone at the club I thank him for all his efforts and wish him well as he considers his next football challenge.”

Arnesen paid tribute to his home of the past five seasons, revealing the decision to leave the club was all his and that the timing of the announcement was to ensure Chelsea could find a suitable replacement.

“After six wonderful years I have decided to seek a new challenge when my contract expires at the end of this season,” he said.

“It is always difficult to take big decisions like this, but it is entirely my decision. I’m looking forward to continuing my work here until such time as the club decides which way they want to move forward. With that in mind I wanted to make the decision now, giving the club plenty of time to make the necessary plans for the end of the season. I will always be grateful to the club and Chelsea will always be in my heart.”