Arsenal summer transfer exit announced as David Raya sends goodbye message | Football | Sport
David Raya has posted a touching farewell message to Karl Hein following confirmation of his permanent transfer from Arsenal to Werder Bremen. The Estonian international spent the 2025/26 season on loan at the Bundesliga club before completing a full-time move, as officially announced on Saturday.
Hein shared an emotional tribute of his own on Instagram, with Raya – who likely worked closely alongside him – responding warmly. The Spaniard wrote: “All the best Karlitos, wish you nothing but the best, pleasure to have shared dressing room with you.”
Having spent the best part of a decade in north London, Hein offered a heartfelt reflection on his time at the club and the role Arsenal played in shaping him as both a player and a person. His post began: “Where do I begin…eight beautiful years with this amazing club has come to an end.
“It was a real privilege to be part of a club like @arsenal for such a long time. It is surreal to look back and think that I was given the opportunity to find a way from the academy to the first team and I will forever be thankful to this amazing football club.”
“This club has helped me grow from a 16-year-old kid to a goalkeeper and person who can achieve his dreams. Who would have ever thought that somehow I will find myself a REAL FAMILY in London who I love.”
“I’ve made so many irreplaceable memories, friends and connections that will stay with me forever.”Where do I begin…eight beautiful years with this amazing club has come to an end.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in this special club on achieving the Premier League title this year and hopefully many more to come! Once a Gooner, always a Gooner.”
Bremen disclosed in their announcement that Hein, who has been sidelined for the past few months through injury, would be arriving as their new No.1, with Mio Backhaus – who had been ahead of him in the pecking order last term – set to join Freiburg.
“Karl Hein will complete a permanent move to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in July 2026, a statement from Arsenal read.”
“The 24-year-old joined us in June 2018 from his hometown club, Nomme United. Karl signed his first professional contract with us the following year after he joined, and went on to make his first-team debut in November 2022, when we played Brighton and Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup third round at Emirates Stadium.”
“Karl, an Estonia international with 45 senior appearances for his country, has spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan with his new side in Germany, where he made two Bundesliga appearances.”
“The 6ft 4in goalkeeper had also previously spent time on loan in the Championship with Reading during the 2021/22 season, as well as Real Valladolid, where he made 32 appearances in all competitions last season.”
“We thank Karl for his contribution to the club during his time with us and wish him all the best for his next chapter with Werder Bremen. The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”
