22-year-old sends message to Arsenal after completing final exit

WREXHAM, WALES: Arthur Okonkwo of Wrexham during the Sky Bet League Two match between Wrexham and Mansfield Town at the Racecourse Ground on March 29, 2024. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

Okonkwo helped Wrexham gain promotion to League One, and he will now have the opportunity to play in the new division with the team.

But after more than 15 years at Arsenal, the decision is an emotional one for Okonkwo, and he posted his farewell on Instagram.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo warms up with Arsenal before a UEFA Europa League match at the Estadio de la Ceramica, Villarreal. Copyright: Focus Images

“The time has come to say goodbye,” Okonkwo wrote. “Having joined the Club in 2009 at the age of eight, I have so many incredible memories from over 15 years ago.

“I have made friends for life and I owe a lot to all the coaches I have worked with, the teammates I have played with, the fans who have supported me and everyone involved in the club for helping me grow and develop into the person and player I am today.

“Arsenal will always be special to me and I hope to see them succeed in the years to come. Thank you.”

Okonkwo has done well with Wrexham in 2023/24, playing 40 times in all competitions and keeping 16 clean sheets while helping them gain promotion to League One.

He clearly felt he had a guarantee of stability in Wales that Arsenal could not offer him at this stage, and he hopes the club continue their rise to eventually meet the Gunners in the Premier League.