Germany captain Michael Ballack says he has 'no doubts' that he
will join Premiership champions Chelsea on a free transfer in the
summer.
The Bayern Munich midfield star has long been expected to sign for
Jose Mourinho's side, with The Blues keen to tie up the deal before
the start of the World Cup finals.
Real Madrid and Internazionale also held an interest, but Chelsea's
unrivalled spending power saw them move to the front of the queue
and Ballack has now confirmed that he expects to move to Stamford
Bridge.
However the former Bayer Leverkusen man also stated that no
contract has been signed as yet, although he looks certain to
become the first high profile capture of the summer for the
Premiership titans.
"No, no doubts [about moving to Chelsea]." Ballack told Premiere.
"Nothing has been signed yet."
Ballack also hit out at the criticism he has received for his
decision to leave the club, from Bayern director Karl-Heinz
Rummenigge amongst others, insisting that his decision to leave is
the fulfilment of a long-standing plan.
"I think my decision should be accepted and I shouldn't be kicked
around anymore about it," Ballack added. "That has actually been
annoying me.
"I'm glad that Bayern are angry if I go.
"That shows I did a good job and that I'm an important player. That
is also reflected in the offer that they made to keep me.
"It's simply the chance now to do what I've always wanted to
do.
"I can remember when Uli Hoeness said 'Come here, we're a top club.
When you're 29 you can go abroad'. That time has come now."
With his star asset set to leave the Allianz Arena in the summer,
Bayern coach Felix Magath has wished the international midfielder
well as he ties up his move to London - whilst also expressing his
excitement about leading the German champions in the post-Ballack
era.
"I had two good years with him; wish him much luck with Chelsea,"
Magath told Bild.
"But I must also say I look forward to Bayern without
Ballack.
"It is also at times delightful to form a crew without such a
personality."
