Emile Smith Rowe took to social media to send an emotional farewell message to Arsenal fans following his move to west London side Fulham, Soccernet.football reports.
Smith Rowe, who grew up as an Arsenal fan, progressed through the club’s ranks to become a key first-team player under Mikel Arteta during the 2020/21 and 2021/22 seasons.
However, he has fallen down the pecking order in recent campaigns and was permitted by the club to seek a move this summer.
The Cottagers have paid an initial £27M, with an additional £7M in potential add-ons, to sign Smith Rowe from the Gunners, ending his 14-year association with the north London club.
Taking to Instagram to say goodbye to Arsenal, the 24-year-old admitted his farewell was the ‘hardest message’ he has had to deliver.
“To the Arsenal family, I wasn’t sure where to start with this as it is the hardest message to write to you all,” he began.
“I was ten years old when I first signed for this club, just a kid with no idea that I would go on to make over 100 appearances and wear the iconic no.10 for Arsenal.
“I’ve experienced so much here, met and played with the best and made so many memories that it’s hard to pick out the best moments.
“There’s too many people to thank but I want to say thank you to all my teammates over the years, every staff member that’s helped me along the way and especially to you fans for making Arsenal *Home* to me for so long.
“I’m ready to take on a new challenge now, I feel hungrier than ever and I have to give myself the opportunity to take the next step.
“So thank you again to the Arsenal family, I’ll always appreciate you all. ESR.”