It’s always sad to see legends go away from the clubs they’re supposed to retire in, as this cruel business often seems quite ungrateful with players when they get older and they shut the door on them in order to make room for younger players.
That’s the case of Chelsea’s John Terry, as the future for the skipper is not looking really good if he decides to stay at Stamford Bridge, since he’s not in Antonio Conte’s plans for the first team and he’s not going to get a lot of playing time.
So, after 19 seasons as a referent for the blues, Terry’s looking at his options, but he’s made really clear that he won’t wear another Premier League shirt other than Chelsea’s, so he’ll have to look for a move overseas, either to the MLS or the Chinese Superleague.
The second option seems really possible, as former Chelsea boss Andre Villas – Boas reportedly wants a reunion with the skipper, and he’s currently working as Shangai SIPG’s manager, and given the rapport they both established during the Portuguese’s stint at Chelsea, it wouldn’t be crazy to think that Terry may wind up signing that deal.
Besides, he reportedly has a very lucrative from other Chinese side, Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao, where he could be playing alongside Jackson Martinez, Paulinho and Alan under Luiz Felipe Scolari’s command. So, should Terry actually make the move to China?
The veteran centre back is not getting any younger, and at age 36, it’ll be very difficult for him to find a nice club that’s willing to offer him some playing time outside of the Premier League, as everybody’s eager to sign youngsters and there’s no room for used goods anywhere.
On top of that, it’s not a secret that money isn’t an issue at China, and he’ll get the last chance to earn a very lucrative deal before finally hanging the cleats and retiring, so that’s yet another major factor to take into consideration, as he could get as much as 10 million euros per season if he decides to sign with a Chinese side.
It’s very unlikely that the skipper has a shot to make the England national team, as the Three Lions count with outstanding youngsters to fill the void that Terry left a few years ago, so moving to China won’t be an issue during the international break because of the long, exhausting and expensive travels.
Last but not least, his good relationship with Andre Villas – Boas would be a great incentive for Terry, who wouldn’t feel as much pressure as he does at Stamford Bridge right now if he’s playing at a less competitive tournament.
Terry still has something to offer on a soccer pitch, but the final days of his careers are quickly approaching, and if he wants to make the most of them, he should pack his bags immediately and take his talent to China, where he’ll definitely be treated as an idol and become an instant fan favourite.