An official announcement has not yet been made, but that hasn't stopped Obafemi Martins from making his own. The Nigerian striker released this statement on Twitter, making it clear that he enjoyed his time with the Seattle Sounders but leaving no doubt that it is over.
Thanks to all who made these last three years an amazing experience. Seattle has a special place in my heart pic.twitter.com/qg3XxYRzbK
— OBA MARTINS (@Obafemimartins) February 18, 2016
In the message, Martins made it clear that he enjoyed his time in Seattle, but ultimately felt he needed a new challenge. He openly acknowledged that part of what brought him to Seattle -- a new challenge -- is the same thing that's driving him to join Shanghai Shenhua of the Chinese Super League.
"It may be difficult to understand or relate to, but I've grown to appreciate the feeling I get when entering environments where I'm not a proven footballer," the statement reads.