Seven Players Set to Leave Arsenal as Mikel Arteta Plans Squad Revamp
London, England – Arsenal Football Club is on the brink of a significant squad overhaul as reports confirm that seven first-team players are set to leave the Emirates Stadium ahead of the upcoming season. Manager Mikel Arteta, determined to continue shaping the team in his image, is reportedly looking to create space for new signings by parting ways with players who are deemed surplus to requirements or have failed to meet expectations.
This move comes after a strong Premier League campaign where Arsenal narrowly missed out on the title, finishing just behind Manchester City. Arteta, while proud of the team’s progress, is now focused on refining the squad to mount an even stronger challenge next season—both domestically and in Europe.
The Players Set to Depart
The list of departing players includes both seasoned veterans and younger talents who have struggled to find consistent playing time. According to sources close to the club, the following seven players are on the verge of leaving:
1. Kieran Tierney
The Scottish left-back, once a fan favorite, has struggled with injuries and has fallen behind Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior in the pecking order. After a loan spell at Real Sociedad, Tierney is attracting interest from clubs in Spain and Scotland. A permanent move is likely as the player seeks regular football.
2. Nuno Tavares
Tavares, who spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, is expected to leave permanently. Despite flashes of attacking potential, his defensive inconsistencies have made it difficult for Arteta to fully trust him. Interest from clubs in France and Portugal has been reported.
3. Sambi Lokonga
The Belgian midfielder, once seen as a long-term option in midfield, has failed to make a significant impact. After spending time on loan at Luton Town, Lokonga is poised to leave with several clubs in Italy and Belgium tracking his progress.
4. Cedric Soares
The experienced Portuguese full-back has played a bit-part role since Arteta’s arrival and spent a portion of the 2022–23 season on loan at Fulham. With his contract set to expire soon, both the club and player are expected to part ways amicably.
5. Reiss Nelson
Despite being offered a contract extension last year, Nelson has seen limited game time. The winger, known for his pace and flair, is believed to be seeking more consistent opportunities elsewhere, with clubs in the Premier League and Bundesliga monitoring his situation.
6. Eddie Nketiah
The academy graduate has contributed important goals over the past few seasons but remains a rotational player. With Arsenal targeting a new striker in the summer, Nketiah may look for a fresh start where he can be the main man up front. West Ham and Crystal Palace are said to be interested.
7. Emile Smith Rowe
Perhaps the most surprising name on the list, Smith Rowe has struggled to break into the first team after injuries and tactical shifts under Arteta. While the club still values his potential, the emergence of players like Kai Havertz and Declan Rice in midfield has limited his opportunities. A move away, possibly on loan or with a buy-back clause, is being considered.
Arteta’s Vision Moving Forward
Mikel Arteta has repeatedly emphasized the need for a “ruthless” approach in maintaining competitiveness at the top level. The Spanish manager, backed by sporting director Edu and club ownership, has overseen a shift in culture, demanding high intensity, tactical discipline, and adaptability.
With Champions League football returning to the Emirates, Arteta aims to build a squad not just with depth, but with players who fit his pressing system and possess the mentality to compete on all fronts. He is believed to be targeting reinforcements in central midfield, attack, and right-back positions.
Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy
Arsenal’s strategy this summer is twofold: raise funds through player sales and reinvest in top-tier talent. The club has already been linked with several high-profile targets including a marquee striker, a dynamic midfielder, and a versatile defender.
By offloading these seven players, Arsenal expects to generate an estimated £80-100 million in transfer fees—funds that could be pivotal in securing the final pieces of Arteta’s jigsaw.
Fan Reaction and Club Legacy
The news of potential departures has been met with mixed reactions from fans. While many understand the need to trim the squad and refresh the team, the possible exits of homegrown talents like Smith Rowe and Nketiah have struck an emotional chord among long-time supporters.
However, there is also a sense of optimism. Arsenal supporters have witnessed Arteta’s rebuild bear fruit, with a clear identity on the pitch and a promising blend of youth and experience. The summer of 2025 now shapes up to be another crucial juncture in Arsenal’s modern evolution.
As the transfer window officially opens, all eyes will be on North London to see how this reshuffling unfolds—and whether it will be the final push the Gunners need to reclaim glory.
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