Arsenal transfer exit announced as Max Dowman sends goodbye message | Football | Sport
Arsenal defender Josh Nichols has penned an emotional farewell message to the club ahead of his departure this summer. Nichols was a regular presence in Mikel Arteta’s first-team training sessions this season, but is now set to embark on pastures new. The 19-year-old managed just one first-team appearance, against Bolton in the Carabao Cup in 2024, but was named in the matchday squad when Arsenal defeated Club Brugge 3-0 in the Champions League in December.
He featured regularly for the Under-21s this season, but will now bid farewell to the club. Nichols progressed through the Hale End academy and the professional contract he penned in 2024 is due to expire at the end of June. He has already secured his next destination, with Croatian outfit NK Kustosija signing him on a two-year deal.
“It’s hard to put into words what this club means to me,” Nichols wrote on Instagram. “This hasn’t just been a team I’ve played for. It’s been a second family, a place where I started as a little boy, made lifelong memories, and shared unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch with my brothers!
“Over the past decade, I’ve experienced the highs, the lows, the victories, the disappointments, and everything in between. Through it all, my love for this club has never changed.
“Wearing this badge has always been an honour, and every time I stepped onto the pitch, I gave everything I had because this club means so much to me.
“I want to thank every teammate, coach, supporter, and most importantly my family for making these years so special. I loved every single moment. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you @arsenal.”
Max Dowman replied with: “All the best my brother”. Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jurrien Timber and Reiss Nelson all sent love heart emojis, as did Manchester United defender Ayden Heaven, who was previously at the Arsenal academy.
Nichols is amongst a number of players set to depart Arsenal this summer, with a significant squad shake-up expected. Despite clinching the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years, Arteta is eager to breathe fresh life into the squad with new acquisitions.
The Gunners have set their sights on Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers, Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez and Bournemouth youngster Junior Kroupi.
However, to finance those potential deals, Arteta must first trim his squad, with the likes of Nelson, Christian Norgaard, Ben White, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Jesus and Ethan Nwaneri all reportedly available for transfer.
