Former Arsenal academy midfielder Sydie Peck has joined Sheffield United as expected, posting a farewell to the Gunners earlier this week.

Sydie Peck signing for Sheffield United (Photo via Peck on Instagram)
Sydie Peck signing for Sheffield United (Photo via Peck on Instagram)

Writing on Instagram earlier this week, Sydie Peck confirmed his departure from the Arsenal academy.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Arsenal football club for my development over the last 11 years,” Peck wrote. “Due to certain circumstances that unfolded I have decided to leave.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and guidance from everyone at the club, and all the coaches and medical team who have played an important role in my development over the years and especially making it a brilliant journey for me which has made me a better person and a better player.

“I wish everyone at the club the best for the future. I’m excited for what the future holds.”

Sheffield United have confirmed that Peck will be joining them, signing a scholarship deal along with Will Lankshear, who left Arsenal for Sheffield United in January.

This move was initially reported last month, after Peck spent time on trial with Brighton, scoring for their u18s in April, and he also played for Cambridge United u16s on trial. But eventually, he decided on Sheffield as his next destination.

Peck was highly rated in his age group as a younger player, though his 2020/21 campaign was disrupted by injury. Still, it’s certainly a bit of a surprise to see him leaving, and the suggestion in his farewell is that it was his decision.

With the former Premier League club going down to the Championship this year, perhaps he feels there’s more of an opportunity to break into senior football eventually than at Arsenal.