Arsenal youth goalkeeper Pedro Virginia confirmed his departure from the club on Friday, posting a thank-you message on Instagram.

Pedro Virginia, younger brother to former Arsenal academy goalkeeper Joao, announced on Friday that he’s also going to leave the club this summer.

Writing on Instagram, Pedro said: “Dear Gunners, it was with great honor that I represented such a great club. I am grateful to all the club’s staff, coaches and teammates. Thank you, Arsenal.”

This isn’t hugely out of the blue, after the u16 goalkeeper removed all references to Arsenal from his account last week. The club also made decisions on fellow youth players like Alfie Matthews and Matthew Dennis in recent weeks, so it’s that time of year.

Pedro played for the Arsenal u16s this season and even made his debut for the Portugal u16s back in February. He was on the winning side that day, but he did pick up a red card in the second half.

The goalkeeper put in a couple of positive performances with the Arsenal u16s in the Istria Youth Cup last year as well. He kept a clean sheet against GNK Dinamo and only conceded once to a penalty rebound against Red Bull Salzburg, after saving the initial effort.

For whatever reason, it seems he isn’t going to extend his stay with the club. We wish him luck for the future.