Michael Ballack has claimed the decision to release him was made by Roman Abramovich.
The 33-year-old, who will miss the World Cup due to the ankle injury he suffered in the FA Cup final victory over Portsmouth, will leave Chelsea when his contract expires at the end of this month.
Ballack has been at Stamford Bridge since 2006, but the London club were unwilling to offer the German the two-year contract he was reportedly seeking.
"It's unfortunate we couldn't come together, but I have to put it behind me," Ballack said in an interview with The Times.
"I've known for a while that the negotiations had stopped and it's time to move on. I have to find a new club and carry on with my career.
"Chelsea was always my first choice as I had four great years at the club and enjoyed every minute, but it was not to be. It's still my first choice, even now, but it was not up to me. The decision was down to Roman."
