Arsenal have announced their list of released players ahead of the new season with as many as 13 departures confirmed across the men's and women's first-team squad as well as the U23s and U18s.
Of course, Ainsley Maitland-Niles' exit is one that supporters were already aware of as the midfielder revealed he was set for a fresh start towards the end of his loan spell with Southampton: "It’s been a great journey but it has come to an end now (at Arsenal)", he told The Athletic in April. "It’s time for a fresh start and to find a new home.
"I’m looking forward to that but, at the same time, my head’s not quite there yet and it’s all about what’s happening now with Southampton. I’m just fully focused on trying to help us stay up and stay positive on a day-to-day basis and win games. When the time gets closer towards the end of the season, I’ll have something else to think about.
"But right now, I’m just focused on football and the task at hand. Southampton is a great club to be at and progress and get some minutes under my belt. Of course, if they were to make an offer, I’ll be more than happy to stay."
As things stand, Maitland-Niles is the only Arsenal men's first-team player that will certainly depart on June 30 as via the club's official website it has been communicated that Reiss Nelson has been offered a new contract and that discussions are ongoing.
Therefore, Zach Awe, Joel Ideho, George Lewis, Matt Smith, Tom Smith, Kaleel Green, Alexandar Kovacevic, Tino Quamina, Mathaues Roberts, Mana Iwabuchi, Rafaelle Souza and Fran Stenson's imminent departures mean that overall 13 players will not be playing for Arsenal next season.
READ MORE: Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Exit confirmed, Rice £100m bid, Havertz contact
Below is confirmation of the release list.
Men’s and Women’s first-team, U23 and U18 squads:
Zach Awe
Joel Ideho
George Lewis
Ainsley Maitland-Niles
Matt Smith
Tom Smith
Mana Iwabuchi
Rafaelle Souza
Fran Stenson
Men’s scholars
Kaleel Green
Alexandar Kovacevic
Tino Quamina
Mathaeus Roberts
Who else should Arsenal allow to leave this summer? Have your say on who'd you would keep or sell below!
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