Football is an ungrateful business and you never know where you’re going to end the next season even if you were great a couple of years before, as you can go from hero to zero in a heartbeat in a sport like this.
This happens a lot with guys that stop contributing due to newest signings, injuries or simply because they’re getting older, and most contenders don’t hesitate to show them the way out and thank them for their services as soon as they get the chance.
So here, we’ll take a look at five guys that once thrived under Wenger’s command at Arsenal but now are struggling to get anything going for thier new clubs after leaving the premises of Emirates Stadium.
Mathieu Flamini – Crystal Palace
The thirty-two years old French midfielder was once a steady starter for Wenger and the gunners, but since father time knocked his door, his performances have been totally diminished, eventually leaving the team in order to sign with Crystal Palace.
However, he hasn’t had many chances to shine with Alan Pardew, as he’s only made a couple of appearances so far this season, and he’s yet to score or make an impact for a team in need of his experience and talent.
Tomas Rosicky – Sparta Prague
The Czech is another former star that father time has knocked out pretty harshly, as the thirty-six years old midfielder didn’t have much in the tank to compete for a spot in Arsenal’s crowded midfield, so he had to return to his homeland in order to get some minutes before retiring.
However, that hasn’t been the case, as the veteran has only made one appearance for his beloved club so far this season in what will most likely be the last season of a really successful career.
Lukas Podolski – Galatasaray SK
This German star was supposed to provide a big boost for a really needed Arsenal offense a couple of seasons ago. Nevertheless, he could never actually help Wenger’s team in any way, so he was loaned to Internazionale just to get him some playing time.
Now, the veteran plays for the Turkish side Galatasaray along with the other experienced guys such as Wesley Sneijder and Hamit Altintop. However, he’s currently struggling to find some minutes, and he’s only played in a couple of games this season despite scoring two goals.
Thomas Vermaelen – AS Roma
The prolific defender was one of the best in his spot during his Arsenal tenure, but there were some big concerns about his health and durability, so he was eventually let go to play with Lionel Messi at Barcelona.
Sadly, the talented Belgian didn’t have much room to shine there either, and his constant injuries eventually made them give up on him, so he had to settle for the Italian side. There, he’s only made two appearances so far, and he has a lot of competition for a starting spot.