Arsene Wenger is surely planning something unprecedented this summer. He has till now signed only Yaya Sanogo for the Gunners, but released host of players. The recent player to be released by him is Brazilian left-back Andre Santos. In the club’s official website today, Arsenal confirmed the release of the 30 year old Brazilian international, who will now join Flamengo back in his motherland.
In 2011, Wenger brought Santos from Turkish club Fenerbahce on a €7 million transfer fee. But since his joining at the Emirates, the veteran fought hard to mark his place. Much to his anguish, he had an early knee injury which proved as a snag to be a regular Gunner. He had managed to show his skill in only 33 matches overall for the Gunners mostly as a sub.
Late in 2012-13 season, he was loaned to Brazilian club Gremio where he contested in mere 8 games. And as soon as the loan period got over, he has signed a permanent deal with Flamengo.
And whereas this veteran Brazilian didn’t get another chance to prove his worth, French international Bacary Sagna has got only a year to do so. The speculations are that this 30-year old right-back will get only 1-year contract extension.
Serving the Gunners faithfully for six long seasons, Sagna now will have arduous time ahead. But he still remains committed and dreams to get regular chance in first-team.
“I enjoy playing for Arsenal,” Sagna said. “I love my team, and I always give my best. I’m still here. Many people were talking about me going back to France but I’m still here and I’m looking forward to a big season with Arsenal.”
“Last season was difficult. I only had one year left and people were looking at that and maybe thinking I would leave. But I tried to stay as calm as I could. Now I will work hard in pre-season and have a good season for Arsenal.”
So, Bacary Sagna has to act first or else he will get the similar treatment that Santos has already received.