“We wasted a whole lot of money to sign him, but not it’s time to release him and let him go”- Arsenal Sporting Director Edu Gasper has told Mikel Arteta to bin £35M Arsenal star who’s earning far more than even Smith Rowe

‘Arsenal should get rid of a forgotten man who deserves more than Smith Rowe’- Edu Gasper

The experienced star should leave the Emirates.

Arsenal’s resurgence in the Premier League has been nothing short of spectacular, signaling a promising era ahead, even if clinching the title might not be immediately within reach. Under the stewardship of Mikel Arteta and Edu, the team has undergone a remarkable transformation, rising from the ashes of disappointment left by Unaia Emery’s tenure. This resurgence owes much to astute transfer dealings and a renewed focus on youth development.

Bukayo Saka stands out as a shining example of Arsenal’s youth pipeline, emerging from the esteemed Hale End academy. Alongside talents like William Saliba, Martin Odegaard, and Declan Rice, Saka has been a beacon of hope for the Gunners. Yet, before the arrival of these stars, it was Emile Smith Rowe who captured the spotlight as Saka’s dynamic counterpart. The duo’s chemistry was evident, even prompting a celebratory song. Despite setbacks from injuries, Smith Rowe remains a vital asset for Arsenal, showcasing immense potential.

Smith Rowe’s journey at Arsenal began with a modest debut in a UEFA Europa League clash against Vorskla Poltava in September 2018. However, it was in the 2020/21 season, under Arteta’s guidance, that he truly flourished, earning recognition as Arsenal’s Supporters’ Player of the Year in 2021. His subsequent season saw further growth, with notable contributions to the team’s goal tally, cementing his status as a key player in Arteta’s plans.

However, Smith Rowe’s progress was hindered by a string of injuries, limiting his playing time over the past two seasons. Despite these challenges, Arteta remains optimistic about his resurgence, acknowledging Smith Rowe’s exceptional talent and the potential for him to reclaim a starting role.

As discussions surrounding Smith Rowe’s future intensify, the glaring disparity in salaries within the squad becomes apparent. While he languishes on a relatively modest wage, other less pivotal players, like Mohamed Elneny, command significantly higher earnings. Elneny’s tenure at Arsenal has been characterized by sporadic appearances, raising questions about the justification for his hefty salary.

A closer look at Elneny’s journey reveals a player beloved by fans for his dedication to the club, yet his on-field contributions pale in comparison to his financial rewards. Since his arrival from FC Basel in 2016, Elneny has amassed a substantial sum in wages, far outweighing his impact on the pitch. With the club’s aspirations set on a trajectory of success, the time may have come for Arsenal to reassess Elneny’s role and reallocate resources more judiciously.

In essence, Arsenal finds itself at a crossroads, balancing the promise of youthful talent like Smith Rowe against the financial realities of maintaining a competitive squad. As the club charts its course for the future, tough decisions lie ahead, including potentially parting ways with players whose contributions no longer align with its ambitions.