Arsenal defender Cedric Soares has confirmed that he will leave the club this summer, with David Raya and William Saliba among those to respond to the news. Cedric has been with Arsenal since joining from Southampton in the summer of 2020.

He spent the second half of last season on loan with fellow Premier League side Fulham and has found game time limited on his return to the Emirates Stadium this season, playing just three times in the league. The 32-year-old is out of contract this summer, and he has now confirmed that he won’t be extending his stay with the club. The full-back has taken to social media to send a message to the club and fans less than 24 hours after the final game of the season.

“What a Team and what a Club,” he wrote on Instagram along with a video of his time at Arsenal.

“When I say a team, I mean exactly that, quality in every player, the professionalism that you show and the amazing human beings you guys are, so thank you!

“When I say club I mean all the departments, all the staff that is constantly putting all the hard hours on and off the pitch to make it possible to fight at the highest level.

“When I say club it also means its heart and with this I mean you guys, THE FANS, that made this journey soo unreal and unforgettable.

“So to all the fans, I thank you! You will always have a special place in my heart! Arsenal COYG!”

The post prompted a response from teammates past and present. Saliba wrote: “Good luck my friend,” while Martin Odegaard replied with three heart emojis.

Goalkeeper Raya was also among those to reply, writing in Spanish: “Good luck brother.” The message comes amid uncertainty over his own future.

The Spaniard is currently on loan from Brentford and has established himself as the Gunners’ first choice goalkeeper this season, winning the Golden Glove. Ahead of the final match of the season against Everton he outlined his stance on a possible permanent move.

“I am just focused on the present. I don't want to think too much about the future,” he said. “It's not up to me now. I have to think about the game on Sunday. Then we break for summer. It's not up to me to sign.

“It's up to the club and Mikel. If my performances have been good enough, hopefully, they will offer me a contract. Of course, I would love to be here next season and, if that's the case, it will be amazing - a dream come true. I don't want to it stop here. I want more. I want to win trophies with Arsenal.”

Speaking earlier this month , Arteta refused to confirm the club’s transfer stance on Raya. "Obviously, we are really happy with David and everything he has brought to the club and the team, there is no question about it,” he sadi. “But, those decisions are taken by all of us at the club and we will see."

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