Chris Willock says emotional farewell to Arsenal after completing switch to Portuguese giants Benfica
Chris Willock paid tribute to his former colleagues and mentors at Arsenal after ending his 14 year association with the club.
The 19-year-old signed a five-year contract with Portuguese champions Benfica on Saturday after a lengthy tussle for his services in which Willock’s suitors had included Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund and Celtic.
Arsenal also tried to convince Willock to stay, offering him a new contract, but one of the club’s brightest young prospects was ultimately lured by “a new challenge [and] a new culture”.
“Since the age of 5, all I've known is Arsenal. I've gone through the youth ranks, trained and learnt from the academy,” Willock wrote on Instgram.
“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone at Arsenal football club, staff, players, coaches, managers and the fans who have helped and influenced me to become the player I am today.
“This was a huge decision for me and my family to make. And not one we made lightly. I'm excited at the opportunity to play for Benfica.
“It's a new challenge, new culture and new group of players! Looking forward to showing them what I've got!”
The youngster had long been highly regarded by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger but struggled for regular game time with his only senior appearances coming in the EFL Cup.
Willock’s younger sibling Joe remains in Arsenal’s Hale End setup whilst older brother Matty is on Manchester United’s books.
ArticleWillock says emotional farewell to Arsenal after Benfica switchChris WillockArsenalBenficatransfer newsLondon footballArsenal news: Chris Willock says emotional farewell to Gunners after completing switch to Portuguese giants Benfica