OPINION
With Arsenal on the verge of completing a deal for Bernd Leno from Bayer Leverkusen, Petr Cech’s future at the club looks to be very much in doubt, with speculation already rife about his next likely destination.
The Mirror reports that the former Czech international is on the radar of former boss Carlo Ancelotti, of whom has taken over at Serie A outfit Napoli and worked with Cech at Chelsea.
At the age of 36, Cech needs to take this interest seriously as he was never going to stay at Arsenal forever – he may be experienced but age is not on his side, which has evidently led to Unai Emery seeking the services of a keeper who will have long-term ambitions at the Emirates.
The best option for the Czech is to reunite with his former manager and play out the rest of his playing career away from the glare of the Premier League, where every mistake is scrutinised.
Paving the way for younger, upcoming talent like Leno will allow Cech to leave the club with dignity and will give him the respect he deserves.
His achievements throughout his career have been outstanding – his heroics in the penalty shoot out against Bayern Munich in the 2012 Champions League Final will never be forgotten by the Chelsea faithful.
The list could go on – Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups. He was undoubtedly world-class when he was at his best, but it is now time to let the next generation have the chance to shine.
Cech’s performances for Arsenal have made him a firm fan favourite at the Emirates, especially after the bad luck they have had with goalkeepers in the past – but he did not let that faze him and he has been a star player for them ever since he joined.
That being said, what a better way to pave the way for new talent than play under your former manager.