Emile Smith Rowe has been left out of Arsenal’s squad for their pre-season friendly against Manchester United at the SoFi Stadium.
Smith Rowe, 23, is on the brink of signing for Fulham, an agreement to sell the academy graduate for a fee of up to £35million is understood to be in place.
The midfielder was left on the bench for the Gunners’ friendly draw with AFC Bournemouth in the week. “Things are happening in the background, and we decided the best thing to do was leave him out,” Mikel Arteta replied when quizzed about Smith Rowe.
A move to Craven Cottage would see the England international become the club’s record academy sale. Since playing a crucial part in Arteta’s early days, the 23-year-old has struggled to grow into his potential due to injuries and form.
He started just four times in all competitions last season after returning from a near year-long absence with a hip problem. When he did come off the bench, he failed to make the impact he would have liked, managing just two assists. His last goal for the club came in April 2022.
Tonight, Arsenal take on Premier League rivals Man United at Stan Kroenke’s SoFi Stadium. In the Gunners’ second friendly, the decision was made to leave Smith Rowe out of the squad altogether amid his imminent move to Fulham.
