Arsenal has decided not to activate an option to extend Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ contract for an additional year, meaning that the versatile player will be leaving the club at the end of the season.
Arsenal have decided against activating an option to extend Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ contract, paving the way for the versatile player to depart the club at the end of the season.
The 23-year-old, who can operate in central midfield and as a full-back, has progressed through the ranks at Arsenal and made his debut at a tender age of 17. Maitland-Niles, however, is now seeking a fresh start and is eagerly looking for a new home to continue his footballing journey.
In a recent interview with The Athletic , the Englishman said, “It’s been a great journey but it has come to an end now (at Arsenal). It’s time for a fresh start and to find a new home. I’m looking forward to that but, at the same time, my head’s not quite there yet and it’s all about what’s happening now with Southampton.”
Maitland-Niles, who is currently on loan at Southampton, is keen on helping the Saints avoid relegation, and his focus is entirely on the task at hand. “I’m just fully focused on trying to help us stay up and stay positive on a day-to-day basis and win games,” he added. “When the time gets closer towards the end of the season, I’ll have something else to think about. But right now, I’m just focused on football and the task at hand.”
With his impressive performances and versatility, Maitland-Niles is likely to attract interest from several clubs, both in the Premier League and abroad, as he seeks a new home to continue his career.