N'Golo
Kante says a speech from new boss Antonio Conte helped convince him to leave
Premier League champions Leicester to join Chelsea.
The 25-year-old completed a £32m move to Stamford Bridge on Saturday after
playing a major role in helping the Foxes win their first top-flight title
in his only season at the King Power stadium.
Kante, who was part of the France squad which reached the final of Euro
2016, took to Instagram to reveal words from new Blues boss Conte were
enough for him to leave the title holders in a post which also paid tribute
to the victims of the Nice terror attack.
"At the beginning of the new season, I chose to join @chelseafc," he wrote.
"It is a great club, which has just recruited a great coach and want to
reach high ambitions I share. The club's project and the coach's speech have
convinced me to join this new ambitious adventure.
"I am now waiting to see my new club and give everything for a successful
summer... And season of course!!"
Kante is the first big-name player to depart Leicester since their
unexpected title triumph, with top goalscorer Jamie Vardy turning down the
chance to join Arsenal and instead signing a new deal with Claudio Ranieri's
side.
He became an instant hit with the fans and was quick to thank them for their
support during what turned out to be an unforgettable year for the former
Caen midfielder - who also made his international debut while at Leicester.
"The 2015/2016 past season will remain as an important season for me," he
wrote. "After a fantastic season, it ended with a final of Euro 2016. We
lost, but we can be proud. The fervour of the French people have given us
strength and I wanted to say THANK YOU ALL.
"Of course it has to be appreciated according to the attack that struck in
Nice in July 14th and I have at this point a sincere thought for all the
victims and their families.
"This season, I also discovered the Premier League with @lcfc. I want to
thank the leaders, my team-mates and Claudio Ranieri for this fantastic
season that saw us winning the title of England.
"Their confidence and also the fans will forever remain in my memory. And I
again thank you all."
Kante is Chelsea's second piece of major transfer business following the
acquisition of Belgium striker Michy Batshuayi from Marseille.
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