“I wanted to fight for my place but the coach told me to…..” pained Arsenal aims brutal dig at Arteta ‘politics’ as goalkeeper reveals truth on transfer

Bernd Leno aims brutal dig at Arsenal ‘politics’ as former goalkeeper reveals truth on transfer
Former goalkeeper Bernd Leno has spoken out about Arsenal following his exit from the club this summer

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno has criticised the club over his treatment and slammed the “politics” culture that led to his exit this summer. The Germany international made the transfer away from the Emirates to Fulham after struggling to hold down a position in the first-team.

The 30-year-old spent four-years at Arsenal, joining from Bayer Leverkusen to become the new first-choice goalkeeper at the club following the exit and decline in form of Petr Cech. In that time, Leno made 125 appearances for the Gunners, keeping 37 clean sheets and conceding 145 goals.

However, last summer saw a shift in his status at the club. After being the comfortable number one option with the gloves, the signing of Aaron Ramsdale from Sheffield United skewed the balance.

READ MORE: Five things spotted at Arsenal training: Marquinhos paired with Bukayo Saka ahead of Zurich game

The England international took his chance to grab the first-team shirt and grabbed it with both hands, soon becoming the guaranteed starter that Mikel Arteta wanted in age profile, his saving ability and his passing ability. This then led to plenty of exit rumours, with only one-year left on Leno’s contract and the desire for first-team football with a World Cup on the horizon.

He left in the summer for fellow London club Fulham in a deal with £8million, at first praising his former club and thanking fans and staff alike. However, he has since changed his tune, blaming the club culture for his eventual exit.

“When I realised that it wasn’t about performance or quality, I knew I had to go,” the German told BILD Sport, per Sportbuzzer. “During the preparation, I saw that it’s not about performance, it’s just about politics. It was clear to me: I have to get out of here.”

It’s a damning statement made against the club and the decisions made surrounding the team. However it remains to be seen whether any more elaboration is made on that point, especially given his time away from the club since his exit.

Why Bukayo Saka isn’t registered for Arsenal clash with FC Zurich ahead of Europa League opener

Edu’s risky Arsenal summer transfer call is already proving to hand Mikel Arteta key £30m gift

Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium

Albert Sambi Lokonga makes Mikel Arteta fume as Arsenal face biggest test of progress

Arsenal transfer business under the microscope in ‘good deal’ or ‘bad deal’

Feel inspired to make a positive change?
We have selected our top trusted sources that can help you take action…
Donate to Kick It Out to support equality in football

Learn more about the Rainbow Laces campaign

Shop Arsenal direct on the official online store