Arsenal star wants to quit club in search for first team role

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Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka both emerged as promising talents for Arsenal during the 2021/22 season. While Smith Rowe was involved in 12 Premier League goals, six fewer than Saka that season, he has struggled with injuries and limited playing time since then. Saka, on the other hand, has continued to excel, contributing to over 100 Arsenal goals in more than 200 appearances.

Smith Rowe’s persistent injuries and the resulting lack of first-team opportunities have seen him fall down the pecking order. Last season, he started just three Premier League games, and his overall appearances have only recently surpassed 100, despite starting his senior career around the same time as Saka. With Arsenal competing for the league titles and with Smith Rowe not crucial to their plan, he is eager to depart the club in search of more regular playing time elsewhere.

Football Insider reports that Smith Rowe intends to inform Mikel Arteta of his decision to seek a first-team role at another club.

Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, and Fulham have all expressed interest, but with Villa’s offer of Champions League football being most attractive.

https://twitter.com/AFTVMedia/status/1806637586837868969

Despite Arteta’s preference to retain Smith Rowe, Arsenal’s reluctance to lower their asking price of over £30 million reflects his age, homegrown status, and proven talent. With his contract expiring in 2026, another year of limited play could significantly reduce his market value.