‘Finally here’ – Emile Smith Rowe explains why he left Arsenal as ex-Gunners star completes £35m Fulham transfer
### Emile Smith Rowe’s Move to Fulham: A New Chapter for the Former Arsenal Star
Emile Smith Rowe has shared his excitement and reasons behind his decision to leave Arsenal and join Fulham, marking a significant step in his football career. After making 115 appearances for the Gunners, Smith Rowe has signed a five-year contract with Fulham for a reported fee of up to £34 million ($44m).
#### A Fresh Start at Craven Cottage
Fulham fans are thrilled to welcome the 24-year-old English winger, who brings a blend of youth and experience to their squad. Smith Rowe expressed his happiness about the move, saying, “I’m finally here, so I’m really happy for me and my family – it’s a good moment. I’m really excited, I just wanted to get here as quickly as possible so I could get going with my team-mates. Listening to the project, speaking to the Manager, and seeing what players we have here already, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.”
#### The Rationale Behind the Move
Smith Rowe’s decision to join Fulham comes after a challenging season at Arsenal, where he found himself falling down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta. Limited to just three Premier League starts last season, he saw an opportunity for more playing time and a fresh challenge at Fulham. As a three-time England international, Smith Rowe hopes to catch the eye of the national team’s new manager with his performances at Craven Cottage.
#### Fulham’s Investment and Ambitions
Fulham’s investment in Smith Rowe underscores their ambition to strengthen their squad and compete more effectively in the Premier League. The club sees the addition of Smith Rowe as a key part of their strategy to enhance their attacking options and build a team capable of challenging higher up the table.
Smith Rowe’s arrival is part of a broader plan by Fulham to boost their squad ahead of the new season. They are set to wrap up their pre-season preparations with friendly matches against top European teams like Benfica, Sevilla, and Hoffenheim. These games will serve as crucial opportunities for Smith Rowe to integrate with his new teammates and for the team to fine-tune their tactics.
#### Looking Ahead
Fulham will kick off their Premier League campaign on August 16 against Manchester United, a match that Smith Rowe is undoubtedly looking forward to as he aims to make an immediate impact. His enthusiasm and drive to succeed at Fulham are palpable, and fans are eager to see how he will contribute to the team’s fortunes in the upcoming season.
Smith Rowe’s transfer to Fulham represents not just a new chapter for him but also a significant boost for Fulham’s aspirations. With a promising project laid out by the manager and the club’s ambitions clear, Smith Rowe’s move is poised to be a mutually beneficial arrangement, potentially propelling both the player and the club to new heights.
