3 Arsenal Players Set To Leave The Club Now: Arsenal’s recent preseason tour squad announcement has set tongues wagging in the football community. The big news from the camp is the omission of Nicolas Pepe, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Cedric. Their absence could be a strong signal that their tenure with Arsenal might be ending.
Yet, there are more layers to this story. Thomas Partey, who is rumoured to be shifting to Saudi Arabia, is still on the roster. He will join his teammates later, according to the reports. This could be a tactical move by Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s head coach, to keep the team’s spirit high during this transformation phase.
The recent roster announcement, however, sheds light on Arteta’s calculated decisions
Arteta is no stranger to rebuilding the team from the ground up. Even after an impressive run last season, the coach is setting the stage for further enhancements. Big names like Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber have already donned the Arsenal jersey this summer. More investment is expected to follow, reflecting Arteta’s unyielding commitment to the club’s success.
The recent roster announcement, however, sheds light on Arteta’s calculated decisions. It seems clear that he intends to bid adieu to a few players before the 2023/24 season commences. This shift isn’t surprising, considering the coach’s penchant for staying one step ahead.
The announcement was quite diplomatic, mentioning that omitted players would be focusing on their fitness or recovery. While Emile Smith Rowe and Partey didn’t make the initial list, they’re expected to join the team next week. Partey’s inclusion is particularly interesting, given the current rumours surrounding a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
Speculations are rife about Partey’s prospective departure, but Arsenal’s hefty asking price could deter interested parties. Despite this, Partey’s commitment to join the team in the US seems to negate any immediate transfer plans.
Nicolas Pepe’s omission is noteworthy too. After a lacklustre performance since his £72million transfer in 2019, his future with Arsenal is up in the air. Despite netting six goals in 19 league matches during a loan spell at Nice last season, he hasn’t impressed the Arsenal bosses.
Interest in the Ivorian international is apparent, but concrete offers are absent. The transfer value that Arsenal will demand for Pepe is also unknown, adding intrigue to the situation.
Arsenal News: Lokonga’s loan period at Crystal Palace under Gunners’ legend Patrick Vieira has ended
Cedric’s case is similar. After a loan spell with Fulham, his chances of continuing with Arsenal look slim. With new signing Timber fortifying the right-back position, Cedric’s presence doesn’t seem vital. His contract expiration in 12 months makes this a crucial time for the Portuguese international.
Lokonga’s loan period at Crystal Palace under Gunners’ legend Patrick Vieira has ended. Despite displaying promising form, he needs to up his game to solidify his place with Arsenal. Burnley has shown interest in the Belgian midfielder, sparking talks of a potential exit.
In conclusion, the latest squad list from Arsenal provides exciting clues about the club’s future. The omens for Pepe, Lokonga, and Cedric appear grim, while others like Partey might continue to fight under the Arsenal banner. All in all, the forthcoming season promises to be a riveting one for the Gunners.
You may also read: The Transfer Saga That Could Make Or Break The New Season For Chelsea
