Okonkwo: ‘It feels like the right time to leave Arsenal’

Former England U18 goalkeeper of Nigeria descent, Arthur Okonkwo has told The Athletic his time at Arsenal is up and will be choosing his career path going forward.

“I went to say my goodbyes at Arsenal the other day. That was tough, knowing I won’t be there any more,” Okonkwo said. “I’d been there so long. But it does feel like the right time. The club is doing so well.

“You have to be one of the best to play for Arsenal. I have to follow my own career path and do what I need to do for myself. There are no hard feelings, we ended things very well.

“I had an incredible time — 14 years and I can still remember the first day I joined. I can never be more grateful to the club for what they have given me. And, you never know how football works, I could be back there one day,’ he told The Athletic.

Okonkwo who kept 16 clean sheets in 40 appearances for EFL League Two, Wrexham AFC on loan from Arsenal made 19 appearances for Arsenal U19 side and 13 for the U18 side is not sure what the future will offer him.

“I haven’t looked too much into things at the moment. But I will, very soon. It is about looking at all my opportunities and seeing which is the best for me. I’ve loved it at Wrexham and they will stay in my heart forever. It’s more of a waiting game now and seeing what is the right move for myself.”