Ainsley Maitland-Niles has officially joined Lyon after being released by Arsenal.

The 25-year-old’s free transfer was accompanied by an entertaining unveiling video that explores the delights of French cuisine.

  • Ainsley Maitland-Niles has signed a four-year deal with Lyon after leaving Arsenal as a free agent.
  • Maitland-Niles spent last season on loan at Southampton, making 27 appearances before the club’s relegation.
  • Lyon unveiled their new signing with a humorous video comparing English and French afternoon tea traditions.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles signs for Lyon [image via Lyon]
Ainsley Maitland-Niles signs for Lyon [image via
Lyon]

A new chapter for Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been unveiled as a new Olympique Lyon player, marking the end of his long association with Arsenal.

The player’s move comes after he spent the entirety of last season on loan at Southampton, which saw 27 appearances in all competitions.

His journey in France brings an end to a 20-year career in England, where he first made a name for himself at Arsenal.

The transition from Arsenal to Lyon

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Southampton warms up prior to the Premier League match between Everton FC and Southampton FC at Goodison Park on January 14, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – JANUARY 14: Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Southampton warms up prior to the Premier League match between Everton FC and Southampton FC at Goodison Park on January 14, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

The 25-year-old midfielder’s departure from Arsenal comes after the club decided not to extend his contract.

This free transfer has allowed him to pen a deal with Lyon until 2027.

During his tenure in England, Maitland-Niles showcased his abilities through the ranks at Arsenal, ultimately earning a spot in the first team.

The creative unveiling

Lyon chose to celebrate their new English acquisition with a delightful video that explored the culinary differences between France and England.

The video features Maitland-Niles enjoying a traditional English afternoon tea, complete with Walkers shortbread, cupcakes, and a mug adorned with Queen Elizabeth II’s face.

In a playful twist, the English delicacies are then swapped out for French treats.

The concept embraces both the player’s English heritage and his exciting new French connection, offering a unique take on the usual player introduction.

Maitland-Niles’ future in Lyon

Eddie Nketiah and Ainsley Maitland-Niles in pre-season training (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Eddie Nketiah and Ainsley Maitland-Niles in pre-season training (Photo via Arsenal.com)

With this exciting new chapter in his career, Maitland-Niles will undoubtedly hope to continue his growth as a footballer.

The video, filled with charm and humour, paints a promising picture of a player ready to embrace the challenges and culture of his new club.

Maitland-Niles in his own words

Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta (R) watches as Arsenal's English midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles takes a throw in during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Southampton at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 16, 2020. (Photo by PETER CZIBORRA / POOL / AFP)
Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta (R) watches as Arsenal’s English midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles takes a throw in during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Southampton at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 16, 2020. (Photo by PETER CZIBORRA / POOL / AFP)

After the unveiling, Maitland-Niles said, “I am very happy to sign here.

“If someone had told me at the age of 6 that I would one day be at Olympique Lyonnais, I could never have imagined it! I absolutely had to seize this opportunity. My favorite position? Midfield. I hope to establish myself in this position, but I am ready to work anywhere to help the team.”