Ivory Coast and former Chelsea star Didier Drogba has confirmed that he has signed with Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua FC. The two and a half year deal will see him at the club until the end of 2014. Didier will fly out to join the squad in July.

Didier said: ‘I have considered all the offers I have received in the past few weeks, but feel that Shanghai Shenhua FC is the right move for me at this time. I am looking forward to a new challenge, to experiencing a new culture, and excited about the new developments in the Chinese Super League.
When Chelsea went to China last year, we had a great time and I met some amazing fans. I hope to help promote Chinese football around the world and further improve the links between China and Africa.’”
Zhu Jun owner of Shanghai Shenhua FC said: “We have been wanting to sign Didier for a while, and are very happy that it has finally happened. He is an incredible player, who has won so many trophies in his career; we feel that his experience and ability will be a very valuable asset to our squad. Shanghai is one of the most influential cities in the world, and we are very excited to welcome Didier here.”
The new manager Sergio Batista added: “Drogba is a very good soccer player, his outstanding skills and amazing experience will give us motivation to improve our games. It is my honour to invite him to join in our team. At last I have to say that the club owner Zhu Jun did his utmost to bring Drogba to Shenhua.”