Maitland-Niles: "It’s been an emotional journey"

Despite seeing his time at the club come to an end, Ainsley Maitland-Niles admits that he’ll always be a Gooner at heart, regardless of where his next move takes him.

It has been confirmed that the 25-year-old will depart Emirates Stadium following the expiration of his contract, ending his long association with his boyhood club that he joined aged six, working his way through the youth system before making his first-team debut shortly after his 17th birthday in December 2014.

Ainsley went on to play 132 times in our colours, scoring three times, and started both the 2020 FA Cup final win against Chelsea as well as the subsequent Community Shield success against Liverpool later that year when he converted a penalty in the shootout.

Reflecting on those memories as well as his time at the club, he said: “Words can’t describe how I’m feeling to be honest, it’s been a very emotional journey. Having supported the club growing up and coming through the ranks, I can only be happy with what I’ve achieved since I’ve been here.

“I’ve seen a lot of players come and go and played with a lot of fantastic players throughout my time here. Unfortunately, it has to come to an end, but I’ve been happy every single moment I’ve been here to play and work for this club.

“The trophy wins would probably be the best moments for me, obviously some of the domestic seasons weren’t so great but at least I got to win some trophies with the club that I love. The FA Cup final was a fantastic day that will always stick in my mind, and I was happy to be a part of the team that won it.”

While his time as an Arsenal player has come to an end, Ainsley believes that he will continue to follow our fortunes from afar, especially given the friendships he has made with numerous players and staff during the 19 years he's spent at Hale End and London Colney.

The five-time capped England international, who spent last season on loan at Southampton, is also looking forward to returning to Emirates Stadium from time to time, and hopes the team he is leaving behind continue to go from strength to strength.

“There have been some lifetime relationships that I’ve built since I’ve been here,” he added. “I can only be thankful for the people that have come into my life and helped me since I’ve been here at the club.

“I’ll always be here to support the team and the boys and hopefully they can win something in the future. For any supporters out there, just be true to the team. They’ve come a very, very long way this season and it’s been fantastic to watch. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner!”