Mikel Arteta Begins Arsenal Overhaul: 22 Players Depart in Bid to Challenge Man City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is entering the 2024-25 season with a clear goal: to finally surpass Manchester City and secure the Premier League title after narrowly missing out for two consecutive years.

Ahead of this pivotal season, Arsenal has seen the departure of 22 players, setting the stage for significant changes within the squad.

This includes both first-team players and a considerable number of youth talents whose contracts expired on June 30.

Among the notable exits is Mohamed Elneny, who has been with the Gunners since January 2016.

Elneny, who joined from Swiss giants Basel, expressed his gratitude and affection for the club and its supporters in a heartfelt farewell message. “Gooners, thank you for everything—the love, the support, and the kindness. I will miss you and keep you in my heart forever,” said the 31-year-old Egyptian midfielder.

Right-back Cedric Soares, another first-team player, also saw his contract come to an end. Cedric, who joined initially on loan from Southampton in January 2020, had limited playing time under Arteta.

Reflecting on his time at Arsenal, Cedric said, “What a team and what a club. Thank you to all the fans; you will always have a special place in my heart.”

In addition to these first-team players, 20 academy players have also left the club.

Among them, 19-year-old right-back Reuell Walters and fellow 19-year-old Amario Cozier-Duberry both turned down new contracts, seeking opportunities elsewhere.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has already made his next move, joining Wrexham permanently after a successful loan spell.

Forward Kido Taylor-Hart, who also tasted promotion with Bromley last season, has departed after 13 years with the club.

The full list of players who left Arsenal on June 30 includes Mohamed Elneny, Cedric Soares, Reuell Walters, Amario Cozier-Duberry, Kido Taylor-Hart, Arthur Okonkwo, Mauro Bandeira, Omari Benjamin, Luis Brown, Catalin Cirjan, Noah Cooper, Henry Davies, Ovie Ejeheri, Taylor Foran, Hubert Graczyk, James Hillson, Henry Jeffcott, Tyreece John-Jules, Alex Kirk, James Lannin-Sweet, Kamarni Ryan, and Billy Vigar.

As Arsenal looks to strengthen their squad, the departure of these players marks the beginning of a new chapter, with Arteta aiming to build a team capable of finally overcoming Manchester City and achieving Premier League glory.