Alonso: Viola wonderful & unforgettable

Chelsea new boy Marcos Alonso has written an open letter to Fiorentina fans, thanking them and the club for a “wonderful and unforgettable adventure”.

Alonso ended three years at Fiorentina on transfer-deadline day as he joined Chelsea for €27m, but the left-back was determined to ensure he left the Artemio Franchi with the blessing of his former paymasters.

“It’s not easy to find words to express my emotions right now. A wonderful adventure is over that I’ll never forget,” he began.

Chelsea new boy Marcos Alonso has written an open letter to Fiorentina fans, thanking them and the club for a “wonderful and unforgettable adventure”.

Alonso ended three years at Fiorentina on transfer-deadline day as he joined Chelsea for €27m, but the left-back was determined to ensure he left the Artemio Franchi with the blessing of his former paymasters.

“It’s not easy to find words to express my emotions right now. A wonderful adventure is over that I’ll never forget,” he began.

“I spent several beautiful years in Florence and I want to thank all the people who made ​​this experience special.

“I thank the Viola fans for the incredible affection they’ve shown me since day one, even during the difficult times.

“I thank the warehousemen, massage therapists, medical staff, technical staff and all those who with their work and passion to make this club special, a real family!

“I want to dedicate a special mention to a great person and a great Coach, Mr. Paulo Sousa, who taught me a lot on and off the pitch and with whom I hope to be able to work again in the future.

“I thank all my teammates, the great guys with whom I shared so many emotions and the beautiful and not-so-beautiful times, in victory and defeat.

“Finally, I thank the club Fiorentina for believing in me and letting me grow as both a player and as a man.

“Now I’m starting a new professional challenge, but I’ll always be proud to have worn the Viola jersey. I’ll follow you and always cheer for you!

Thank you from the heart, Florence!

Thank you from the heart, Fiorentina!