Arsenal's worst player to depart

Arsenal seeks to make space for new talent and allocate wages efficiently, certain players must be moved on during this summer transfer window. Among them, Cedric Soares stands out as an obvious candidate for departure. Despite the recent unveiling video featuring him alongside new signing Declan Rice, Cedric's presence in the squad appears unnecessary, especially with the addition of Jurrien Timber.

However, Cedric Soares has expressed his desire to stay and fight for his place under Mikel Arteta. In late May, he made his intentions clear, refusing to consider leaving the club:

🚨 Cedric Soares wants to stay at Arsenal & fight for his place next season. Cedric has one year remaining on his current contract, which is worth £100k-a-week, but the injury to Takehiro Tomiyasu could lead to an opportunity in pre-season. [@sr_collings] #afc pic.twitter.com/Bah9iFdEnS

— afcstuff (@afcstuff) May 25, 2023

As time has passed, Cedric remains steadfast in his commitment. While his work ethic and passion for the club are admirable, they alone cannot overshadow the essential factor of suitability within Mikel Arteta's system. Regrettably, Cedric does not align with the manager's requirements.

If Cedric continues to reject any transfer opportunities this summer, the club may have no choice but to terminate his contract without hesitation. In this new era for Arsenal, difficult decisions must be made to ensure the team's progress.

As for Cedric Soares' future destination, it remains uncertain. Unless a transfer agreement is reached, the possibility of his contract termination leaves him with an uncertain path for the upcoming season.



While Cedric Soares' determination and commitment to Arsenal are commendable, the reality of professional football is that decisions must be made with the team's best interests in mind. Mikel Arteta's tactical system and preferred style of play may not align well with Cedric's strengths and weaknesses as a player. Therefore, it's crucial for the club to explore other options and make space for new talent that better suits Arteta's vision for the team.

With the signing of Jurrien Timber, Arsenal has added a promising young right-back who could potentially become a key figure in their defensive setup. Timber's arrival further complicates Cedric's chances of securing regular playing time. Although competition for places can drive players to improve, the disparity in suitability for the system may outweigh the benefits of internal competition.

For the sake of both the player and the club, it's essential that Cedric considers his options realistically. Arsenal is a prestigious club, and remaining with the Gunners could be appealing due to the allure of the Premier League and the potential to turn things around. However, it's also important to recognize that a lack of playing time may hinder his development and limit his opportunities to shine on a broader stage.

As the summer transfer window progresses, Cedric and his representatives should actively seek out potential suitors where his skills and style of play are a better fit. Exploring opportunities at other clubs, even if they may not be as prominent as Arsenal, could prove beneficial in the long run for his career.

If, despite all efforts, no suitable transfer offer materializes, Arsenal may have no choice but to part ways with Cedric through contract termination. This would be a regrettable outcome for both parties, but it might be a necessary step to free up wages and squad space for players who better complement Arteta's tactical plans.

Ultimately, the decision rests with Cedric Soares. As much as he desires to fight for his place at Arsenal, it's crucial for him to also consider his future and how he can maximize his potential as a footballer. Whether it's securing a move to another club or accepting a role as a squad player at Arsenal, the path he chooses will significantly impact his career trajectory.

As Arsenal continues its quest for success and progression under Mikel Arteta, tough decisionsregarding player personnel must be made. And while fans and players alike might feel a sentimental attachment to certain individuals, it's vital to maintain a pragmatic approach to achieve the club's goals. In the ever-evolving world of football, sacrifices and difficult choices are often necessary to pave the way for a brighter future.