Cech felt he needed to make the move having being displaced as Chelsea’s number one, but still called it the “hardest decision” to call time on his lengthy stay in west Londoners.

The goalkeeper posted a lengthy letter to the club’s supporters on Twitter, yet some of the vitriol aimed back at him was revolting.

Cech was branded a “traitor” and a “snake” on social media, with some going as far as to threaten his life – although the Czech Republic international is focusing on the positive messages.

“It has been overwhelming, really,” he said.

“The message from my now ex-team-mates and the Chelsea fans – the true Chelsea fans – was overwhelming.

“Obviously the messages from the Arsenal fans and my new team-mates I am really delighted with.

“In that way, I really feel that the club wanted me and I feel really welcome and I feel that I made the right choice.”

Cech told a press conference in Prague that “true fans will appreciate what I’ve done and the legacy I’ve left” – a bracket it seems owner Roman Abramovich falls into.

Jose Mourinho was adamant the goalkeeper would not be going anywhere if he had his way, although the Russian overruled his manager and granted the long-serving goalkeeper the move he craved.

“I am very grateful and it means a lot to me to have the word from the man who without him Chelsea wouldn’t have been in the position it is now,” Cech said.

“I believe he doesn’t get enough credit for what he is doing for the club.

“To have his word and his permission to stay in the Premier League to play for Arsenal, it means a lot to me and it shows great respect for what I have done and what I have achieved at Chelsea Football Club. I am really grateful for that.”