For many fans, John Terry simply is Chelsea.
The centre-back and captain has won everything in the 18 years since his debut for the club, and aside from six games on loan at Nottingham Forest he has not played club football for anyone else.
But that may change next season, with the 35-year-old confirming he will not stay at Stamford Bridge beyond this season.
John Terry confirms post-match he is not having his contract renewed by #CFC. End of an era…
— Dominic Fifield (@domfifield) January 31, 2016
Fans have been quick to pay tribute to the man they call ‘Captain, Leader, Legend’, and there is a sense that his presence will be tough to replace.
Love him or hate him John Terry is best English defender of my generation #JohnTerry #JT #cfc
— T (@TyroneOwenNo1) January 31, 2016
https://twitter.com/rtl104/status/693875442533715968
Many were quick to point out that another Blues defender may have been less deserving of a contract extension.
https://twitter.com/TheFootballRep/status/693875408744353796
So Ivanovic is worthy of a new deal yet not John Terry? Joke. Pissed off is an understatement. #CFC
— Mikel Stevens (@MikeyyyyStevens) January 31, 2016
Some speculated about his departure being a clue to Chelsea’s next manager.
Tbf John Terry doesn't suit Guardiola style
— Keir (@Kingkeir) January 31, 2016
Maybe Chelsea's next manager has decided he doesn't want John Terry. so the club are you know forward planning….
— Shivam Manghnani (@shivamLM) January 31, 2016
While cynics were already fearful of an over-the-top send-off.
I fancy that John Terry final lap to eclipse Stevie G's doomy send-off last year.
— John Brewin (@JohnBrewin_) January 31, 2016
There has been plenty of chat about where Terry will end up next.
Exceptionally excited to see a sprint for the ball between John Terry and Robbie Keane next season
— Amitai Winehouse (@awinehouse1) January 31, 2016
https://twitter.com/Nfltipster/status/693876721578348544
John Terry is going to China or to Qatar
— MoIsAwesome (@cpatt20) January 31, 2016
In the end, perhaps we just have to accept that these things happen in football.
https://twitter.com/Cfc_CJ_/status/693874619397361665
