Chelsea captain Reece James has fired a message to Marcus Bettinelli after the veteran goalkeeper completed a transfer to Premier League rivals Manchester City.
The Blues confirmed the 33-year-old's departure as he has joined up with Pep Guardiola's side in time for the FIFA Club World Cup next week.
His stay at Chelsea - therefore - comes to an end after four years, during which he primarily acted as third-choice goalkeeper and made only a single appearance - a 5-1 win over Chesterfield Town in the 2022 FA Cup third round, under Thomas Tuchel.
Missing out that day with a hamstring injury was James - one of his many unfortunate set-backs over the years - though the full-back has now outlined his gratitude to his 'brother' Bettinelli for helping him through such times.
"Thank you for all the memories big bro! Through every set-back, every injury, you were always there to lift me up when I felt like I had nothing left," the England regular wrote in an Instagram post.
"You've been more than a teammate, you've been a brother from the day you arrived.
"It's tough to see you go, but I'm forever grateful for everything you've done for me and my career."
The 25-year-old shared a series of pictures alongside of the duo on their travels with Chelsea during recent years, including with the Europa Conference League trophy won just weeks ago.
So not only is a popular member of the squad departing, but critically their third-choice goalkeeper, too. City are strengthening 24 hours after their own veteran, Scott Carson, was confirmed to be leaving them.
Chelsea released the retained list on Monday with the news that goalkeepers Lucas Bergstrom, Eddie Beach, and Luke Campbell would all be moving on, as well.
And now a move for AC Milan's Mike Maignan has fallen through, too - football.london understands - so Enzo Maresca will not be adding him to his squad in time for the Club World Cup group stages.
The deadline to make signings passes at 7pm on Tuesday, June 10. The window then reopens on Monday, June 16, with the next opportunity to add players into the squad only in time for the start of the knock-out stages, should the Blues progress that far, of course.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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