Emile Smith Rowe's Story Was Forced To Leave Arsenal Even Though He Was Educated There

JAKARTA - Fulham's Emile Smith Rowe finally opened his voice leaking the reason for leaving Arsenal, a place to educate him since he was a junior.

The 24-year-old midfielder said moving from Arsenal in August 2024 was the toughest decision in his career. However, it needs to be done for his happiness.

"I don't remember the real moment. However, for the last two seasons I haven't played as much as I wanted and it always crossed my mind that I want to be happy again."

"I want to play. Sometimes you have to think about the best for yourself. I've always wanted to put my club first, but at the same time, I have to make myself happy."

"It may be the hardest decision I've ever made (to leave). However, I spoke to my family and we decided that it was the best for me," Smith Rowe told the Telegraph.

Smith Rowe left Arsenal to join Fulham in last summer's transfer window for a club record-breaking fee of 34 million.

The 24-year-old is a graduate of Arsenal's Hale End academy with team-mate Bukayo Saka.

He made his Premier League debut in the 2021/2022 season. However, he struggled to get minutes to play in the last two seasons at Arsenal.

In addition, the England international struggled with injury after initially appearing to stand out with Arsenal's first team.

"It was very difficult. Of course. Struggling with injuries and then getting back in shape. Then, I didn't get the chance that I obviously wanted."

"However, at the same time Arsenal are trying hard to win the league. So, I have to wait and be patient."

"It was very difficult. My family was there for me. I tried to stay as positive as I could. However, this is football and things like this are happening," said Smith Rowe.

However, Emile Smith Rowe hopes that one day he can return to the Emirates Stadium because his love never fades.

"Come through the academy, all you want to do is play for your club. When you don't get the chance, there's little you can do."

"As I said, there are no bad feelings or anything. I still support them. I'm still talking to some players. It's all because of love," Smith Rowe said again.

After not scoring for Arsenal since April 2022, Smith Rowe started his career at Fulham with two goals and one assist in his first seven games.

Smith Rowe is happy that his performance is starting to improve. He will work hard to get back to his best.

"It feels relieved. Just because I haven't felt it for a long time. It's hard to explain that feeling."

"Just knew that you had scored and everyone was watching you. I really missed that feeling."

"It's really addictive. You want to know what it's like tomorrow and the day after tomorrow," said Smith Rowe.