Ainsley Maitland-Niles, once a young hopeful at the Arsenal academy, shares heartfelt sentiments about his time at the club.
As he prepares to say goodbye, the emotions are bittersweet and the memories numerous, marking the end of a 19-year journey.
- Ainsley Maitland-Niles expresses deep emotion as he ends his 19-year association with Arsenal, having joined the club at age six.
- He relives his memories, particularly the 2020 FA Cup final win against Chelsea and the subsequent Community Shield triumph against Liverpool where he converted a crucial penalty.
- Despite his departure, Maitland-Niles assures his continued support for Arsenal, urging fans to remain loyal as well.
As Ainsley Maitland-Niles prepares to embark on a new phase in his career, he couldn’t help but look back at his journey with Arsenal, expressing deep emotional ties with the club he has been part of since he was just six years old.
A journey from the academy to the first team
The 25-year-old’s association with the club is set to end following the expiration of his contract.
The journey from a six-year-old in Arsenal’s Hale End academy to earning his first-team debut shortly after his 17th birthday in December 2014, has been nothing short of remarkable.
He registered 132 appearances, netted three times, and was a crucial part of the team’s 2020 FA Cup and Community Shield victories.
The unforgettable victories
Recollecting those glorious moments, Maitland-Niles shared, “The trophy wins would probably be the best moments for me…The FA Cup final was a fantastic day that will always stick in my mind, and I was happy to be a part of the team that won it.”
Leaving behind cherished memories and relationships
With a heavy heart, he acknowledged the end of his time with Arsenal. Yet, the bonds formed and friendships made over the years have left an indelible mark. His tenure at Arsenal not only honed him as a player but also helped him forge lifelong relationships.
“There have been some lifetime relationships that I’ve built since I’ve been here,” he added. “I can only be thankful for the people that have come into my life and helped me since I’ve been here at the club.”
Always a Gunner at heart
The midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Southampton, confirmed that he will always support Arsenal from afar. As he looks forward to his future, he wishes his former teammates the very best.
“I’ll always be here to support the team and the boys and hopefully they can win something in the future. For any supporters out there, just be true to the team. They’ve come a very, very long way this season and it’s been fantastic to watch. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner!”