Matteo Guendouzi posted – and then deleted – a social media message signalling his departure from Arsenal despite previously stating his desire to return and prove himself under Mike Arteta
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Matteo Guendouzi’s Arsenal career looks to be over even though the midfielder was adamant he could return to the Emirates and prove his worth.
The Frenchman has spent the year away on loan at Hertha Berlin.
But ahead of his return to the Emirates the 22-year-old has penned – and since deleted – a farewell message on social media sparking speculation.
He wrote: “Thank you Arsenal. Thanks for everything!
“I discovered and learned so much during my time here. It would be impossible to list everything without forgetting one memory or word… but I will never forget any minute spent with the Gunners jersey.
“I will never forget the Emirates Stadium. I will never forget the fans. I won’t forget the city.
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“I will never forget everything I’ve been through here. I will never forget that my only will was to defend with pride Arsenal colours.
“Thanks to all of those who believed in me during my time here, during the good and the bad moments.
“I can only wish the best to the club and its fans who deserve so much, trust me! Goodbye Arsenal, I will never forget you and will be a Gooner forever.”
Back in Mikel Arteta’s first season as manager Guendouzi was involved in an incident with Brighton’s Neal Maupay.
It did little to endear him to the Gunners boss and he was left out in the cold for the remainder of the campaign in what was a show of ruthlessness from Arteta.
Earlier this season though he dismissed the idea that his Arsenal career was over.
He told France Football: “No, not at all. Now, I am focused on my season with Hertha Berlin
“Next, we will have a sit down with my entourage and people at the club to think and discuss the future. I am still an Arsenal player. This summer will be a decisive moment.”
He was then quizzed on whether he could ever play again under Arteta, to which he replied: “Yes, of course. I belong to Arsenal for another year (until June 2022).
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“I am here [at Hertha Berlin] to improve. From the moment that I am playing for Arsenal, I will give everything for this club, for the fans, for the team, for the staff.
“I will work hard for the shirt as I have always done.”
Guendouzi was signed from Lorient by Unai Emery back in 2018.
He made 48 appearances in all competitions in his debut season and seemed destined to be a mainstay for years to come.
Now though he is set to be one of several Arsenal departures as Arteta wields the axe this summer.
