Arsenal manager Unai Emery has essentially admitted that he played a part in persuading Jack Wilshere to leave the club in this summer’s transfer window.
The England international ended up running down his contract at the Emirates Stadium despite a long career with the Gunners, with whom he’d become a real fan favourite.
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Still, it seems Emery did not see a regular place for Wilshere in his squad, and while he by no means told the player he was not a key part of his plans, this seemed to be enough to suggest to him that he should move on.
“The conversation with Wilshere was a very good conversation,” Emery is quoted by football.london.
“I explained to him my opinion and how I want to create the team and that I’m not sure he would play in the 11 players.
“And also he explained to me that the decision was not easy for him but he wanted to choose the best option for him.
“I know this player is important for the supporters and he grew up here in Arsenal, but I don’t give him one spot in the eleven who start.
“So for that he choose to leave and I respect this.”
The 26-year-old has ended up joining Premier League rivals West Ham and should be a fine signing for them, though one wonders if Emery might live to regret this early move as Arsenal boss.
The Spanish tactician replaced the legendary Arsene Wenger this summer and could perhaps have done without losing such a big name so early on.
Still, Arsenal have made an exciting new signing in midfield by bringing in Lucas Torreira from Sampdoria.
