“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us” : Mikel Arteta dejected over academy player’s departure
Mikel Arteta has recently expressed his sorrowness towards the exit of one of Arsenal’s best academy players, Emile Smith Rowe. It is no secret that ever since the introduction of Mikel Arteta, the team has been steadily improving over the past seasons. If not for the genius of Pep Guardiola, Arsenal would have been back-to-back Premier League champions by now. Many players are wanting to join the Spaniard’s project, but building a new squad comes at a cost.
Emile Smith Rowe, who made his senior debut in 2018, cemented his place as an attacking midfielder while initially joining the first team dynamics. Smith Rowe was regarded as one of the best young talents of English football, earning him praises for his vision, technical ability and work rate. When Mikel Arteta joined in 2019, Smith Rowe was consistently in his plans, and also earned the valuable number ‘10’ shirt, proclaiming his spot on the first team.
But the sudden emergence of current Arsenal team captain Martin Odegaard, including new signings like Fabio Viera, Jorginho and Declan Rice saw Smith Rowe lose his first team spot. He fell down the pecking order, becoming a benchwarmer, which ultimately led to his departure from the club. Mikel Arteta had nothing but respect and showcased great compassion towards Smithe Rowe and what he has done for the club.
“Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him. He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud. I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.” said Arteta.
Emile Smith Rowe completes move to Fulham for £34m
Mikel Arteta and Emile Smith Rowe parted ways in good terms, as both mutually agreed that the youngster needs more playing time at this age, which he was unable to get at his boyhood club. Arsenal and Fulham reached an agreement for a total package of £34m (£27m + £7m add-ons) as reported initially by Fabrizio Romano.
Smith Rowe’s first words as new Fulham player were: “Listening to the project, speaking to the manager, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.”
The feelings inside Arsenal club were quite emotional as players and staff showed gratitude while fans on social media reminisced his memories at the club, as Smithe Rowe played his whole career at Arsenal. Even sporting director Edu had heartfelt words for Smithe Rowe.
“Emile is loved by us all at the club. He has been with us for many years, and we are so proud that he has developed through our academy system into our first team. It has been a positive collaboration to find the right place for Emile, where he will continue to grow and make his mark on the Premier League.” said Edu.
Needless to say, Emile Smith Rowe’s presence will definitely be missed in the Arsenal locker room, as he embarks on a fresh Premier League journey.
