Emile Smith Rowe was an unused substitute as Arsenal took on Bournemouth in a pre-season friendly in Los Angeles.
Arsenal got their pre-season tour of the US underway with a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, before winning a penalty shootout after the final whistle.
Mikel Arteta made lots of changes throughout the mach, ensuring that plenty of players got some time on the pitch.
In terms of established first team figures, Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Thomas Partey, Reiss Nelson, Eddie Nketiah, and Fabio Vieira all started, whilst Jorginho, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jakub Kiwior, Martin Odegaard, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus were all introduced from the bench.
Emile Smith Rowe was the only first team star not to get any game time against the Cherries. The midfielder’s exclusion has only served to fuel speculation that his exit from the club is imminent.
After the match, Arteta confirmed that he had left Smith Rowe out of the match due to matters going on in the “background” concerning the Hale End academy graduate.
Smith Rowe has been heavily linked with a move to Fulham this summer, which may be on the verge of coming to fruition, prompting Arteta to keep the player clear of action on the pitch.
Arsenal fans discuss uncertain future of Emile Smith Rowe
After Smith Rowe was kept on the sidelines against Bournemouth, plenty of Arsenal fans took to X to discuss his future.
One supporter said: “Thinking back to late 2020 when things were at their worst. Before Saka and Martinelli started getting regular game time. Before Ødegaard was brought in. Smith Rowe was the first one to come into the team and give us hope things could get better. Will always love that guy.”
Another recalled: “I’m gutted about things not working with Smith Rowe but it’s time for him to leave and play regular football. Starting against Chelsea that Boxing Day was such a sliding doors moment for Arteta and this project, but it hasn’t worked out – this Fulham move can suit everybody.”
One fan stated: “I’m a Smith Rowe fan. I’ve got a Smith Rowe shirt. The move to Fulham is best for everyone. To get to the next level, we have no margin for error anymore, and every player has to be technically, physically, and mentally locked in week in and week out.”
Another added: “Can’t remember a player in recent times that’s as universally loved in the Arsenal fanbase as Emile Smith-Rowe. Gutting to lose him but it’s definitely the right move for both parties. Fulham fans should be extremely excited.”
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