Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the departures of four players as they prepare for the 2025-26 season.
The Gunners, who finished the campaign without a major trophy, are now focused on rebuilding under Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta.
Kieran Tierney, who scored the opener in the win at St. Mary’s, headlined the exits alongside Jorginho, Neto, and Raheem Sterling.
The Scottish defender, who marked his final appearance with a goal, had promised to find the net in his last game for the club. “He said it yesterday, ‘I’m going to score in my last Arsenal match,’ and he’s done it,” Arteta said after the match.
“Credit to him, a special thank you. He’s been part of this journey, and it’s been a joy to work with him. He’s a really special character, very liked in the dressing room. The doors of this club are always open for him.”
Arteta reflected on the season, which saw Arsenal defeat Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals before falling to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.
Despite their efforts, they were outpaced by Liverpool in the Premier League race. “It’s been a really demanding season, one that has stretched us all,” Arteta said. “But the culture and mindset we have at this football club have sustained us to perform at the highest level up to the last day. That’s remarkable.”
The Southampton match showcased Arsenal’s resilience, with captain Martin Odegaard sealing the win late after Ross Stewart had levelled the score.
Arteta praised the team’s spirit, adding, “I’m very happy. You want to start your holidays with a good feeling, a good vibe, seeing some smiley faces. It was important to win, and to say goodbye to a few players who have left our football club, to thank them for their contribution.”
Social media posts from Arsenal’s official account echoed Arteta’s sentiments, highlighting Tierney’s goal and naming him Player of the Match in his farewell performance. “Marking his final appearance with a goal Yesterday’s Player of the Match: Kieran Tierney ,” the club posted on X.
Speculation around further departures has also surfaced, with posts on X suggesting players like Thomas Partey and Oleksandr Zinchenko could leave, though no official confirmation has been made.
Arteta’s focus now shifts to the transfer window, with Arsenal linked to targets like Martin Zubimendi to bolster the squad. “There’s much more to come,” Arteta said in his end-of-season speech. “This group of players have the hunger, the quality, the talent, we’re going to make it happen.”
As Arsenal prepare for their 100th consecutive season in the top flight, the departures signal a bold step toward refreshing the squad. With Arteta’s vision and Berta’s influence, the Gunners are poised to challenge for silverware in 2025-26.
