Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta once had a telling response about the potential of Emile Smith Rowe as he struggled to hide a smile when discussing the midfielder. Smith Rowe was previously hailed as a future star for the Gunners but has been plagued by injuries and dips in form over recent years.
It was not long ago that the England international was spearheading a new era for Arsenal, alongside fellow Hale End graduate Bukayo Saka. Now, it appears Smith Rowe is on the brink of a £35million switch to Fulham, a stark contrast to the bright future once envisioned for him at Arsenal.
Back when Smith Rowe was starring for Arteta’s side, any offer like the current one from Fulham would have been instantly dismissed. However, times have changed; the player’s form has waned, and the initial promise seems to be fading, leading to the likelihood of Smith Rowe leaving the club he joined as a 10-year-old.
In a 2020 interview , Arteta couldn’t hide his enthusiasm as he lavished praise on his new number 10: “He’s a player with very specific qualities to play in those pockets in that position as an attacking midfielder. I am excited to work with him. I have been talking with him and I have followed him during his spell on loan. I think he’s someone who can be pretty impressive.
