Arsenal Football Club has confirmed the departure of one of its players following a successful 2025/26 season. The Gunners won the Premier League for the first time in 22 years under manager Mikel Arteta, after seven attempts that included three consecutive second-place finishes.
Champions League Heartbreak
Arsenal lost to Paris Saint-Germain 4-3 on penalties in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary, on Saturday, May 30. The North London club took the lead in the sixth minute through Kai Havertz before reigning Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele equalized in the 67th minute, sending the match to extra time and eventually penalties.
Nichols Announces Departure
Arsenal star Josh Nichols has announced his departure from the club after 10 years. According to Football London, the former academy player described Arsenal as his second family, a place that gave him great memories over the years. Nichols added that he shared exciting and memorable moments on and off the pitch with his teammates, whom he called brothers.
He said: "It's hard to put into words what this club means to me. This hasn't just been a team I've played for. It's been a second family, a place where I started as a little boy, made lifelong memories, and shared unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch with my brothers."
The 19-year-old stated that wearing the Arsenal badge was a great privilege and that he gave his best during his time at the club. He continued: "Over the past decade, I've experienced the highs, the lows, the victories, the disappointments, and everything in between. Through it all, my love for this club has never changed. Wearing this badge has always been an honor, and every time I stepped onto the pitch, I gave everything I had because this club means so much to me."
He concluded: "I want to thank every teammate, coach, supporter, and most importantly my family for making these years so special. I loved every single moment. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner."
Arsenal players, including Max Dowman, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Jurrien Timber, sent their best wishes to Nichols. Mikel Arteta had included Nichols in the preseason tour last summer before he made his debut against Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup, a match Arsenal won 5-1.
Arsenal Reinforce for New Season
Legit.ng previously reported that Arsenal is planning significant squad improvements ahead of the new campaign as Arteta seeks to build on the club's recent success. The Gunners are targeting reinforcements at left wing, striker, central midfield, and right-back, with several high-profile names already linked to a move to the Emirates Stadium as preparations for another title challenge continue.
