Arsenal Announce Departure of Three Players Ahead of Summer Transfer Window: A Strategic Shift at the Emirates
*London, May 8, 2025* — Arsenal Football Club have officially confirmed the departure of three senior players as the Gunners prepare for a pivotal summer transfer window. The announcement, made via the club’s website and across their social media platforms, marks a major moment of transition as Mikel Arteta looks to reshape his squad ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
The three players who will be leaving the club are **Mohamed Elneny**, **Cedric Soares**, and **Reiss Nelson**—each of whom brought different levels of experience, tenure, and impact during their time in North London.
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### Mohamed Elneny: The Loyal Servant Bids Farewell
Egyptian midfielder **Mohamed Elneny**, Arsenal’s longest-serving player at the time of his departure, leaves the Emirates after nearly a decade at the club. Elneny, 32, joined Arsenal in January 2016 from Swiss side FC Basel and quickly earned a reputation as a dependable and disciplined midfielder.
While he was never considered a regular starter under Arteta, Elneny remained a trusted squad player and locker-room leader. His professionalism and positive attitude earned him immense respect from both teammates and fans. Elneny’s contributions in domestic cups and during injury crises were crucial, especially during Arsenal’s 2020 FA Cup triumph.
In the club’s official statement, Elneny was lauded for his “unwavering commitment and exemplary conduct,” with Mikel Arteta stating:
> “Mo has been a role model for professionalism and dedication. He has played a crucial role on and off the pitch, and we are grateful for everything he has given to the club.”
Elneny is now expected to weigh options in the Middle East or a return to Turkey, where he previously played for Beşiktaş on loan.
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### Cedric Soares: The Utility Defender Moves On
Portuguese full-back **Cedric Soares** will also part ways with the club following the expiration of his contract. Signed initially on loan in January 2020 and permanently from Southampton later that year, Cedric made over 60 appearances for the Gunners.
Often utilized as a backup right-back and sometimes a left-back in Arteta’s system, Cedric’s playing time diminished over the past two seasons due to the emergence of Ben White and the signing of Takehiro Tomiyasu. Despite his limited minutes, Cedric remained a vocal figure in the squad and served as a mentor to younger players.
A statement from Arsenal thanked Cedric for his contributions and highlighted his experience and versatility. The 33-year-old defender is reportedly attracting interest from Portuguese clubs, with a potential return to Sporting CP on the cards.
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### Reiss Nelson: A Homegrown Talent Seeks a New Chapter
Perhaps the most emotional farewell is that of **Reiss Nelson**, the 25-year-old winger who rose through Arsenal’s Hale End academy and was once considered one of the club’s brightest young prospects.
Nelson made his first-team debut in 2017 under Arsène Wenger and showed flashes of brilliance during loan spells at Hoffenheim and Feyenoord. His dramatic late winner against Bournemouth in March 2023 remains one of the most memorable moments of Arsenal’s recent campaigns.
However, consistent playing time proved elusive for Nelson, especially with fierce competition in the wide areas from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard. Despite signing a contract extension in 2023, Nelson is now ready to seek regular first-team football elsewhere.
In his farewell message, Nelson wrote:
> “Arsenal is my home and always will be. I’m grateful to the fans, staff, and my teammates. It’s time for a new chapter, but my love for the club will never fade.”
Clubs in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Eredivisie are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.
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### A Strategic Summer Reset
The departure of Elneny, Cedric, and Nelson opens up both wage space and squad spots for Arsenal as they prepare to reinforce key areas. With the club set to return to Champions League football for the 2025/26 season and ambitions of competing for the Premier League title, a busy transfer window is expected.
Sporting Director Edu Gaspar is reportedly working closely with Mikel Arteta on identifying replacements and new signings that align with the club’s tactical evolution and youth-centric strategy. Arsenal are rumored to be eyeing reinforcements in midfield, defense, and the striking department.
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### Fan Reaction and Legacy
While none of the three players were regular starters in the 2024/25 campaign, all played a part in Arsenal’s cultural and emotional fabric over the years. Fans took to social media to share appreciation messages, particularly for Elneny and Nelson, whose connections with the fanbase run deep.
A fan tweeted:
> “Elneny, the ultimate professional. Nelson, one of our own. Cedric, always gave his all. Thank you for everything. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner.”
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### Final Word
The announcement serves as a reminder that football is ever-evolving, and even loyal servants must sometimes make way for new talent. As Arsenal look toward a bright future under Arteta, the departures of Elneny, Cedric, and Nelson symbolize both the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new era.
All three leave with the best wishes of the club and fans alike—and with
legacies, however varied, that will always be part of Arsenal’s story.
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