After spending more than seven years at Arsenal, Mohamed Elneny is leaving the team this summer. The midfielder has given an explanation for his absence from the lap of honor at the end of the season.
Mohamed Elneny’s time at Arsenal is coming to an end (Image: Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)
In his opening statement, Mohamed Elneny said he was too “heartbroken” to take part in the customary lap of honor at the Emirates following his tearful departure from Arsenal.
The Egyptian midfielder is scheduled to depart North London after spending seven and a half years with the Gunners, during which he made over 150 appearances and won two Community Shields and an FA Cup. He left because the club did not extend an offer to him for a new contract.
Elneny declined to take part in the lap of honour even though he had the chance to say goodbye on the final day of the season when Arsenal defeated Everton 2-1. He later explained that the intensity of his feelings prevented him from doing so.
Elneny revealed his strong bond with Arsenal in a poignant interview with the team’s official website: “Being here for so long has meant a lot to me; it was the best eight years of my life.” I adore this team, the supporters, and everything about Arsenal.
“I was so overcome with emotion that I declined to walk across the field [during the lap of honor] because it breaks my heart.” But that’s life; I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished for this club, and my time here is coming to a close.
“I gave everything I had because I love these fans.” They will always hold a special place in my heart for everything they did for me, both in the good and the bad.”
As Mikel Arteta’s coach at Arsenal and as a former teammate, Mohamed Elneny has conveyed his sincere gratitude. The midfielder from Egypt, who just said goodbye to the Emirates, thought back on his time spent working with and playing with Arteta.
“I played with Mikel for six months before he retired and became a coach,” Elneny said. “I learnt a lot from him, so I appreciated playing with him and having him coach me. He has done so much for me and this football team, and I am grateful.
“He was shrewd while he was playing, and he worked with a lot of excellent coaches after that. His leadership was evident, and you could tell he had great potential.”
Elneny also gave special recognition to the camaraderie within the squad. “This bunch of players is unlike any I’ve ever seen. Everyone works as a family, loves and supports one another. Since they have been my friends for a very long time, I will miss them.
“Our friendship will last forever. I will now be cheering them on in front of the TV, and occasionally I will visit the stadium to watch them play. They deserve it, therefore I’m confident they’ll have an even better year the next year.”
Elneny, who has been linked to a number of teams following a productive loan at Besiktas, leaves behind a legacy of respect and camaraderie at Arsenal, even though his next destination is yet unknown.
