Arsenal youth winger Nathan Tormey confirmed his decision to leave the club on Thursday, turning down the offer of a new contract.

Zak Swanson and Nathan Tormey with the Arsenal u21s against Peterborough United (Photo via Twitter / ArsenalAcademy)
Zak Swanson (L) and Nathan Tormey (R) with the Arsenal u21s against Peterborough United (Photo via Twitter / ArsenalAcademy)

Writing on his social media pages on Thursday, Tormey explained that he appreciated Arsenal making him a three-year contract offer, but he’s going to move on from the club at the end of his deal.

Tormey was a regular starter for the u23s this season. From August until mid-January he featured in every single league game, EFL Trophy match and Premier League International Cup game to that point.

He scored five goals and assisted one in that period, including goals against Spurs, Manchester City and Liverpool. Unfortunately, he then picked up an ACL injury, ruling him out for the season.

His plan is to return to action for the start of the new campaign, but not with Arsenal. The problem was simply the lack of a pathway to the first team right now.

At 20 years old, Tormey was competing with Reiss Nelson, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Trae Coyle in and around his age group for games on the wing. That’s not to mention senior players like Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang filling spots.

A pacey left-footed winger, Tormey was undoubtedly a key player for the u23s this season. If he finds the right club to make use of his talents, he can forge a good career in professional football. Good luck to him!