Chelsea icon John Terry is putting a remarkable collection of personal football memorabilia up for auction, with proceeds set to benefit charitable causes close to his heart. The sale includes some of the most poignant and celebrated items from his decorated career, headlined by the shirt he wore during one of his most painful professional moments.
A Shirt Steeped in Personal History
The most emotionally charged lot is the match shirt Terry wore in the 2008 UEFA Champions League final against Manchester United in Moscow. It was in this game that the then-Chelsea captain infamously slipped and missed a crucial penalty in the shootout, consigning his team to a heartbreaking defeat. Terry has previously spoken about the profound impact of that loss, revealing in a December podcast that he had even considered taking his own life in its devastating aftermath. Described as 'tear-stained', the shirt is now valued at £3,750.
Treasures from a Trophy-Laden Career
Alongside this item of personal anguish are symbols of ultimate triumph. Terry is also auctioning the infamous full kit he changed into to lift the Champions League trophy in 2012, despite being suspended for the final against Bayern Munich in Munich. That shirt carries an estimate of £1,875. A miniature version of the trophy he raised that night is valued at £3,750.
However, the standout piece in terms of value is expected to be his Premier League winner's medal from the 2004-05 season. As captain, Terry led Chelsea to their first top-flight title in 50 years during Jose Mourinho's debut campaign. This historic medal could fetch up to £75,000 at auction.
A Collection Spanning Clubs and Country
The auction offers a comprehensive journey through Terry's professional life. It features shirts exchanged with football's global elite, including legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A shirt from Arsenal's Thierry Henry, worn during the 'Invincibles' season, is valued at £750.
The lots also cover key milestones: his final Chelsea appearance shirt and his last career jersey from Aston Villa. His international career with England is represented by a red shirt from the 2010 World Cup defeat to Germany in South Africa.
The online sale, conducted by auction house Goldin, is scheduled for December 31. All proceeds will support the John Terry Foundation, aiding two charities Terry personally champions. A spokesperson for Goldin praised the collection as a testament to a 'remarkable' career, noting Terry's status as one of English football's greatest defenders and his 78 caps for the national team.
