Emile Smith Rowe, an Arsenal fan favourite who came through the Hale End academy, faces a turning point in his young career.
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, once considered the heir to the legendary No. 10 shirt vacated by Mesut Özil, now grapples with questions that fill the newspapers about his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium.
During the 2021/22 season, the footballing world was properly introduced to Emile Smith Rowe and his undeniable talent. He bagged 11 goals in 33 games, earning a well-deserved England call-up. However, injuries disrupted his progress last year, relegating him to substitute appearances in the Premier League.
This season has been a rollercoaster for Smith Rowe. His recent Player of the Match performance against Luton Town showed his ability to influence the game with his movement, intelligence, and work ethic. But his overall playing time remains a concern.
Mikel Arteta‘s tactics and a deeper Arsenal squad present a challenge for Smith Rowe. Martin Odegaard has cemented his position as the No. 10, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli dominate the flanks. Jorginho and Declan Rice in midfield adds another layer of competition, offering distinct skillsets that Smith Rowe doesn’t possess.
However, ahead of the game against Brighton this weekend, Arteta expressed his faith in Smith Rowe and confirmed he is part of his plans for the future, despite the rumours that are currently doing the rounds.
“Yes [he is part of my plans going forward],” Arteta said. “I look at him and what happened in the last two seasons especially with him. What happened three seasons ago as well. Take all that. It’s the best thing that could’ve happened for him in his career if he uses it in the right way now, so don’t look back and say ‘if, if’.
“No, this happened, use it. That was the best thing that could’ve happened. ‘I had a great moment, I had a difficult moment, now I know what I want and how to deal with that. That’s going to make me a much better player’. You can see the hell of a player that we have in him when he’s fit and playing at that level.”
Despite these comments, the i report a potential shift in Arsenal’s stance when it comes to selling Smith Rowe this summer. A renewed offer from Aston Villa, previously rejected at £30 million, might be met with more flexibility if the right price is offered. West Ham United and Chelsea are also mentioned as potential destinations for the young midfielder.
Let’s hope they’re wrong.