Emile Smith Rowe shares his journey from surgery to recovery, the competition at Arsenal, and his anticipation for the upcoming season in a recent interview.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 22: Emile Smith Rowe (C) #10 of Arsenal is pulled down by Casemiro #18 of Manchester United during the second half of a pre-season friendly match at MetLife Stadium on July 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Manchester United defeated Arsenal 2-0. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 22: Emile Smith Rowe (C) #10 of Arsenal is pulled down by Casemiro #18 of Manchester United during the second half of a pre-season friendly match at MetLife Stadium on July 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Manchester United defeated Arsenal 2-0. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
  • Emile Smith Rowe opens up about his surgery and recovery, expressing gratitude for the support he received during this challenging time.
  • Emile sees the competition from new signings at Arsenal as a positive challenge that drives him to work harder.
  • Reflecting on the successful run at the Euros and last season’s performance, Emile anticipates an ambitious and successful season with Arsenal.

Recalling the challenging time he faced last season, Emile Smith Rowe shared, “I don’t think I really thought about it [the difficult moments].

Emile Smith Rowe playing for the Arsenal u21s (Photo via Arsenal Academy on Twitter)
Emile Smith Rowe playing for the Arsenal u21s (Photo via Arsenal Academy on Twitter)

“I was out with surgery twice, so that was really hard. But my family, friends, and the club helped me a lot to get through it.

“Yeah, I’m truly happy to be pain-free right now and getting fit,” Emile added, expressing relief at his successful recovery from his injuries.

“It was tough, but I’m happy that I don’t feel enough pain anymore. I’m really happy that I’m fully fit now. In terms of the club, we finished second last season and made some new signings this summer.

“That’s a good thing, but honestly, it brings more competition and makes it even harder to secure a spot.

Addressing the recent signings at Arsenal and the competition they bring, Emile added, “But I’m at a big club like Arsenal. If I didn’t have competition, I wouldn’t have to push myself every day in training.

“Tough competition keeps me on my toes, and it’s good for me. I have to keep believing in myself and working hard. Playing for an ambitious club like Arsenal is what every player wants.

With an optimistic lens, Emile looked ahead at the new season.

“We are ambitious, and that’s our goal. We want to win trophies and be back in the Champions League. I’m really eager to push on,” Smith Rowe said.

“It’s indeed a massive season for me. Last year was tough, but I’m feeling good and strong now. Coming from the Euros, which was a big achievement for our nation, I feel confident.”

Smith Rowe looked incredibly sharp and lively in his 19 minute cameo for Arsenal in New York, coming off the bench in the 71st minute against Manchester United at the MetLife Stadium on Saturday night.