Bukayo Saka said that seeing the departures of Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson, and Eddie Nketiah from Arsenal “wasn’t easy,” while Mikel Arteta expressed that he “really felt” the need of parting with one of the players.
Saka ascended to the Gunners’ first team with Smith Rowe. Both individuals began their tenure at the North London club simultaneously; however, three years later, Smith Rowe is now with Fulham.
His buddy and former teammate has acknowledged that the departure of the offensive midfielder, along with the exits of Nelson and Nketiah, has been challenging for him.
“Indeed, I must admit, I have missed them somewhat,” he said to Men in Blazers.
“Upon my arrival to the first team, they embraced me as elder brothers, extending a warm welcome and support.”
“It was challenging to witness their departure; however, I am genuinely pleased for them, as they are three exceptional players of considerable talent, and I am confident they will excel in the Premier League this year.”
Arteta acknowledged that the choice to release Smith Rowe was challenging.
“During my conversation with Emile, I genuinely felt it,” Arteta stated.
“Firstly, I express immense gratitude for his arrival to the team during a challenging period.” I believe he was the player that facilitated a connection between our supporters and the squad. I am unable to articulate it, yet that encapsulated my sentiment.
Saka and Smith Rowe developed concurrently
Smith Rowe is just one year senior than Saka and joined Arsenal at the age of ten, whereas Saka had previously been in the club since the age of seven.
The duo completely integrated into the first team in the 2021/22 season, having participated intermittently the previous season.
Smith Rowe netted 10 goals and provided 2 assists in 33 Premier League matches that season.
Concurrently, Saka participated in every league match, netting 11 goals and providing 7 assists.
Following their successful tenure at their childhood club, it is evident that Smith Rowe’s departure after many years has significantly affected Saka.
Arsenal seeks to acquire
Following the departure of several previous academy stars, Arsenal want to enhance its squad by acquiring players from other sources.
It is anticipated that they would evaluate Girona players Miguel Gutierrez and Viktor Tsygankov during the Champions League.
TEAMtalk sources indicate that they are monitoring five strikers, including Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, and Jonathan David.
Angel Gomes is currently under consideration, although he is being monitored by many prominent Premier League clubs.
What is the status of the deceased stars?
Following their departure from Arsenal, all three former youth players have achieved early success with their new teams.
Smith Rowe has maintained a steady presence at Fulham, having already recorded one goal and one assist at his current club.
Nelson has also scored his inaugural goal for the Cottagers in an EFL Cup match against Preston.
Nketiah has also scored in the League Cup, netting the opening in a 2-1 triumph against QPR for Crystal Palace.
Each individual will be optimistic about their potential to excel, since they are likely to assume more prominent positions at their respective clubs, rather than occupying lesser roles at Arsenal, considering the quality available to Arteta.
