Mikel Arteta has opened up about his decision to allow Emile Smith Rowe to join Fulham.

The Arsenal manager expressed sadness at the departure of the Hale End academy graduate, admitting that he felt he hadn’t gotten the best out of the young midfielder.

Earlier this summer, Smith Rowe completed a move to Fulham for a reported fee that could reach £34 million.

The 23-year-old midfielder, who joined Arsenal at the age of 10, made his senior debut in 2018 and enjoyed a breakout season in 2021/22, scoring 10 Premier League goals.

However, injuries and increased competition for places limited Smith Rowe’s opportunities in recent seasons. Despite showing glimpses of his talent, he struggled to secure regular playing time under Arteta.

Speaking to the press before Arsenal’s game against Aston Villa, Arteta also acknowledged the financial realities of modern football, with clubs often needing to sell academy products to comply with regulations. However, he emphasised the importance of providing opportunities for young players to develop and contribute to the first team.

“When I had the talk with Emile, I really felt it,” said Arteta. “First of all because I have huge gratitude because he came into the team at a tough moment. I think he was the player that made our supporters and the team click, in a way. I don’t know how to explain it but that was my feeling. Something changed when he came in the team. He created a different energy. And I have a feeling like ‘argh’, that I have not got the best out of him.

“Obviously a lot of things happened in that time. From my side it was sad, because I know how those boys feel when they are in that building, how hard everyone works to get them close to the first team, so I feel a huge responsibility to give them the chance. And now, can they sustain this level and make us better? That is the idea.”

The move to Fulham presents Smith Rowe with a chance to reignite his career and play regular first-team football. The Cottagers, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, will be hoping that Smith Rowe can provide a creative spark in their midfield.

For Arsenal, the transfer marks the departure of a promising academy product and true fan favourite. However, the club received a significant fee for Smith Rowe, which will be reinvested in the squad.