In a stunning development, a former Arsenal striker who left the club following a fallout with manager Mikel Arteta has now expressed a strong interest in returning to the Emirates Stadium.
The player, whose name is currently being kept under wraps, had previously vowed never to be involved with Arsenal again. However, a recent emotional moment appears to have changed his perspective entirely.
The turning point came during Arsenal’s impressive Champions League performance against Real Madrid.
Bukayo Saka’s passionate celebration, particularly after scoring a goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, evoked strong emotions in the former striker.
Saka’s display of passion and commitment to the badge reminded the unnamed forward of what it truly meant to represent the club, and according to him, it felt like the club still had room for him.
That sense of belonging, coupled with Arsenal’s resurgence on the European stage, has made him reconsider his previous stance.
The striker had departed for a modest fee, mainly due to irreconcilable differences with Arteta.
But with the club now on a high—having eliminated Real Madrid with a commanding 5-1 aggregate scoreline—the mood around the Emirates has never been more optimistic.
The former player was particularly inspired by Saka’s performance, which was reminiscent of Thierry Henry’s legendary celebrations, symbolizing the pride and passion tied to the club’s history.
Speaking about the team’s upward trajectory, Arteta acknowledged the growing appeal Arsenal now holds for players around the world. “We’re lucky,” said Arteta.
“When we talk to players, they want to be part of this club.”
This statement adds weight to the striker’s desire to return, suggesting the door might not be entirely closed.
The Gunners, battling injuries to key forwards such as Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, could benefit greatly from the return of an experienced striker with Premier League knowledge.
Havertz, who has been recovering from a hamstring injury since February, is said to be progressing faster than expected.
Still, reinforcements up front could prove crucial in the title race and European ambitions.
Arsenal has also been linked with several attacking targets including Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting, Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.
But bringing back a player already familiar with the club’s culture and expectations might offer a unique blend of experience, chemistry, and leadership.
As the summer transfer window nears, all eyes will be on whether Arsenal decides to rekindle this old relationship, potentially welcoming back a striker whose heart seemingly never left North London.
