Jack Wilshere reveals his reasons after announcing Arsenal exit

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has announced that he will leave the Gunners at the end of June after 17 years with the club.

The 26-year-old, who has been with the Gunners since joining their academy in 2001, said he was “left with little choice” following discussions with the club, including new manager Unai Emery.

“I can confirm I will be leaving Arsenal Football Club when my contract expires at the end of June,” Wilshere wrote on Instagram.

“Following a number of extensive conversations with those at the club, and in particular a recent meeting with the new manager Unai Emery, I felt that I was ultimately left with little choice but to make the decision that I have due to purely footballing reasons.”

Wilshere said Emery made it clear he would not be a key player in the Spaniard’s plans and – despite agreeing to a reduced-terms contract – he decided to leave for footballing reasons.

“Following my meeting with the new manager I was made aware that although the reduced contract offer remained, it was made clear to me that my playing time would be significantly reduced should I decide to stay,” he added.

“I am sure everyone can understand that at this point in my life and career I need to be playing first team football and following my meeting with Mr Emery I came away feeling that it would be very difficult for me to do so at Arsenal.

“Given this, I feel I have no option but to pursue other opportunities in order to progress my career on the pitch.”

 

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