Emile Smith Rowe Admits Leaving Arsenal Was the ‘Best Thing’ for Him

Emile Smith Rowe, who says he “turns into a monster” on the field when given the opportunity to play frequently, has said that moving from Arsenal to Fulham was crucial to his happiness and career.

In August, the 24-year-old offensive midfielder decided to quit Arsenal and sign with Fulham for a rumored cost of up to £34 million ($44 million), citing frustrations with his lack of playing time. Since then, Smith Rowe has accepted the new beginning, saying that it has been essential to preserving his happiness and helping him regain his shape.

What Emile Smith Rowe Said

In an interview with The Telegraph, Smith Rowe reflected on his decision to leave Arsenal:

“For the last two seasons I haven’t played as much as I wanted to, and it was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to be happy again. I wanted to be playing. Sometimes you have to think of the best for yourself. I always want to put my club first, but at the same time, I have to make myself happy. It was probably the toughest decision I’ve had to make [to leave Arsenal], but I spoke to my family, and we decided it was the best thing for me.”