Charlie Patino, an Arsenal midfielder, shared an emotional statement on social media when it was confirmed that he was leaving the Emirates.
When Patino, at 18 years old, scored on his debut in a 5-1 League Cup victory over Sunderland in 2021, the young player instantly became popular.
Shaun O’Connor, the head of scouting at Arsenal, once called him the “best player who has ever walked through the doors at Hale End.” Many predicted that he would develop into a top-tier prospect for Mikel Arteta for many more seasons.
Nevertheless, the midfield player only managed to play twice for the Gunners since he was on loan at Swansea and Blackpool for the previous two seasons.
The 20-year-old will now join Spanish second-tier side Deportivo La Coruna in a deal worth £1 million, although the transfer also includes a significant sell-on clause for Arsenal.
Announcing his departure to Spain in a post on Instagram, the academy graduate began: ‘Dear Arsenal fans.
‘Firstly, I just want to say thank you for all the amazing memories that I have had at this historic club. It has been an honour to represent Arsenal on and off the pitch.
‘I joined the club when I was 11 years old with a dream of one day making my debut for Arsenal. I was fortunate enough to make my dream a reality and for this I will always be grateful.
‘Thank you to the fans, team mates, coaches and everyone associated to the club. Best of luck for the future!!’
Patino becomes the second Hale End graduate to leave Arsenal this window after Emile-Smith Rowe completed his £34m move to Fulham.
And there could be a third to follow in the coming days as Eddie Nketiah closes in on a deal to join Crystal Palace.
The striker had been close to joining Nottingham Forest but that deal collapsed over the weekend after the club was unable to agree terms with the 25-year-old.