Following Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Southampton on Sunday,manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the departures of four first-team players,marking the start of a significant summer reshuffle at the Emirates Stadium. Kieran Tierney,Jorginho,Neto,and loanee Raheem Sterling will all leave the club,with Arteta praising their contributions while emphasizing the need for tactical evolution .

Kieran Tierney: A Sentimental FarewellTierney,who scored the opening goal in his final appearance,will rejoin Celtic on a free transfer after six years in north London. The Scottish left-back,often hampered by injuries,delivered a fitting farewell with a composed finish,fulfilling his pre-match promise to teammates. Arteta highlighted Tierney’s professionalism,stating,“He’s been a warrior for this club,and his commitment will be missed” . Despite limited playing time this season,Tierney’s leadership and Versatility earned him a place in Arsenal folklore,particularly his role in the 2023 FA Cup triumph.

Jorginho’s Graceful Exit to FlamengoJorginho,the experienced Italian midfielder,will depart for Flamengo ahead of the Club World Cup. Signed from Chelsea in January 2023,he became a crucial figure in high-pressure matches,offering calmness and tactical flexibility. Arteta noted,“His ability to control tempo in midfield was invaluable,especially during our Champions League run.” With his contract expiring,Jorginho leaves Arsenal having made 68 appearances,contributing five goals and eight assists .

Raheem Sterling’s Disappointing Loan SpellSterling’s return to Chelsea concludes a forgettable loan spell at Arsenal. Once a feared Premier League winger,the 30-year-old struggled to replicate his form,managing just 10 goals and 8 assists in 38 appearances. Arteta acknowledged the challenge of integrating Sterling into the system,stating,“We hoped he’d add depth,but it didn’t click. We wish him well.” Chelsea,eager to offload his £325,000-a-week wages,may seek a permanent sale this summer .

Neto’s Short-Lived Arsenal CareerGoalkeeper Neto,signed on loan from Valencia last summer,failed to displace David Raya as the first-choice. His departure clears the path for Arsenal to pursue a long-term backup,with Espanyol’s Joan Garcia linked as a potential target . Arteta thanked Neto for his professionalism,adding,“He provided Stability in training and was a consummate teammate.”

Tactical Reset and Future AmbitionsThe exits align with Arteta’s vision to build a younger,more dynamic squad. With Thomas Partey and Jorginho’s contracts expiring,midfield reinforcements like Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi are prioritized . Defensive upgrades,including a potential move for Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams,aim to address vulnerabilities exposed during the season’s latter stages .

Arteta emphasized the need for “fresh energy,” stating,“This is part of a broader plan to challenge for titles. We’ve identified areas to strengthen,and the squad must evolve.” The departures of Tierney and Sterling also free up significant wage space,potentially funding a £120 million bid for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak .

Key Takeaways

Kieran Tierney: A fan favorite returning to Celtic after injury-plagued spell.

Jorginho: A calming midfield presence joining Flamengo.

Raheem Sterling: A loan disappointment heading back to Chelsea.

As Arsenal bids farewell to these four,the focus shifts to a pivotal summer window that could define their 2025/26 title aspirations. Arteta’s squad overhaul signals a decisive step toward bridging the gap with Premier League rivals.

Keywords: Kieran Tierney,Jorginho,Raheem Sterling