Mikel Arteta Breaks Silence on Why the real reason Arsenal Let Emile Smith Rowe Join Fulham

Mikel Arteta has finally opened up about why Emile Smith Rowe, one of Arsenal’s most beloved academy graduates, was allowed to leave the club during the summer transfer window. The talented midfielder, now thriving at Fulham, will face his boyhood club for the first time in Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League clash with the Cottagers.

Smith Rowe was a player who held a special place in the hearts of Arsenal fans. Joining the club as a child, he rose through the ranks and made an immediate impact when he was given his big break on Boxing Day 2020, delivering a stellar performance against Chelsea.

From that moment, he became a key part of Mikel Arteta’s plans, helping to rebuild Arsenal during a challenging period. His standout 2021/22 season, which saw him score 11 goals in all competitions, highlighted his immense potential.

However, injuries soon disrupted his progress. A persistent groin injury limited his playing time during the 2022/23 season, and the following campaign saw even fewer opportunities for the young midfielder.

In a recent press conference, Arteta shared the reasoning behind the decision to let Smith Rowe leave Arsenal. While the decision was emotionally difficult, it was made in the best interests of the player.

“It was a very tough decision to let Emile go, especially because, personally, I feel very grateful for what he did for the club and for me in a period of time where I think he was instrumental to change something around us.”

Arteta revealed that Smith Rowe had struggled with injuries and was no longer receiving regular game time at Arsenal. He admitted that the player needed a “fresh start” to reignite his career.

“At the end, players have to play. He had a lot of difficult moments as well, a lot of struggles due to injuries when we were together. He needed a fresh start. It’s normal, we understood that, and we allowed him to go.”

Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham has been a success so far. The 24-year-old has been a regular starter under Marco Silva, featuring in every Premier League game this season and contributing directly to five goals—three goals and two assists.

Fulham has given him the consistent playing time he was missing at Arsenal, and he seems to be thriving in his new environment. For Arsenal fans, while it was heartbreaking to see Smith Rowe leave, there is pride in watching him find success elsewhere.

This weekend, Smith Rowe will return to the Emirates Stadium with Fulham for the first time since his departure. It’s expected to be an emotional moment, with fans likely to give him a warm reception for all he contributed during his time at the club.

However, while Arsenal fans respect and admire Smith Rowe, they’ll be hoping he has a quiet game as the Gunners aim for another crucial Premier League victory.

Despite his departure, Emile Smith Rowe’s legacy at Arsenal remains intact. His performances during a challenging period helped lay the foundation for the club’s resurgence.

Arteta and Arsenal supporters will always cherish Smith Rowe’s contributions and wish him well for the future—except, of course, when he’s playing against them!