Emile Smith Rowe’s Potential Arsenal Departure: The Right Move?

The Unquestionable Talent of Emile Smith Rowe

When it comes to Emile Smith Rowe, his undeniable talent demands regular football. As Jamie Carragher eloquently put it in October 2021, “Sometimes, players just pop up and you can’t help but like them — and I absolutely love that lad. I don’t know if it’s because of his shin pads and his socks are down; I look at him and think: ‘I always want him to do well’.” Carragher praised Smith Rowe, highlighting his joy in watching him play, saying, “He’s the best player I see in the Premier League running with the ball.”

This joy was shared by Arsenal fans, who were thrilled by Smith Rowe’s dynamic performances during the 2020-21 season. As an academy graduate, he brought fresh energy and creativity to Mikel Arteta’s side, earning himself a new contract and the iconic No. 10 shirt.

The Rise and Struggles

Smith Rowe’s impact continued with a 10-goal campaign and three senior England caps in the 2021-22 season. Despite his promising start, the past two years have been challenging due to fitness issues and Arsenal’s heightened competition for titles. Since August 2022, he has made only three Premier League starts, offering mere glimpses of his earlier brilliance.

Photo: IMAGO

Recent reports indicate Arsenal have rejected bids from Fulham and Crystal Palace for the 23-year-old. This shows the club’s respect for Smith Rowe’s desire for regular first-team football. However, with his 24th birthday approaching, he cannot afford another season of limited playtime.

Fitness Battles and Recovery

Smith Rowe’s absence in the first half of the 2022-23 season was due to surgery addressing growth-related discomfort. Although he returned in January 2023, he faced setbacks, including a brief appearance against Bournemouth. Despite these challenges, he showcased his potential with the England Under-21s, scoring in a 4-0 win over France.

His match fitness gradually improved, yet he only made sporadic appearances for Arsenal. Even after starting against Nottingham Forest and Luton, his opportunities remained limited. This inconsistency raises the question of whether a move away from Arsenal could reignite his career.

The Case for a Fresh Start

Smith Rowe has entered the final two years of his contract, making this an optimal time for Arsenal to consider selling him. Such a move would generate pure profit from an academy graduate and could potentially break the club’s transfer record. For Smith Rowe, a transfer could offer a chance to become a central figure in another team, potentially revitalising his career.

A move to Crystal Palace or Fulham presents appealing options. Returning to south London with Palace would bring him closer to his roots, while joining Fulham could reunite him with his former grassroots coach, Colin Omogbehin. Either move would provide Smith Rowe with the regular playtime he needs to fully realise his potential.

The Emotional Farewell

If Smith Rowe’s time at Arsenal is ending, it will undoubtedly be a painful farewell. Thierry Henry encapsulated this sentiment, saying, “What Arsenal represents the most for me — other than what we win as a team — is what it does represent in the community. It’s always been the club of the people, the streets.” Smith Rowe’s connection to Arsenal runs deep, making any departure bittersweet.

Smith Rowe’s playing style, reminiscent of Arsenal legends like Aleksandr Hleb, Robert Pires, and Tomas Rosicky, has endeared him to fans. Despite these comparisons, Smith Rowe remains a unique talent who can excite and inspire. Whether he stays or leaves, his career deserves to flourish, even if it means finding success away from the Emirates.

The decision to let Emile Smith Rowe leave Arsenal is fraught with emotion, yet it may be the right move for both the club and the player. As he seeks to reignite his career, a transfer could offer the fresh start he needs. Arsenal fans will always cherish his contributions, and wherever he goes, Smith Rowe’s talent will continue to shine.