These 7 players were released by Arsenal in the summer - and how they've fared since then

Arsenal Football Club, like any other top football team, undergoes significant changes in its squad during the summer transfer window. While they can bring in new talent to bolster their ranks, they also have to make tough decisions about letting go of certain players. In the summer [of the current year], Arsenal parted ways with seven players. In this article, we take a look at these players and how they have fared since their departures. 

Mesut Ozil 

Mesut Özil was a high-profile departure from Arsenal when he moved to Fenerbahçe in January 2021. His time at Arsenal was marked by inconsistency and controversy off the pitch. Since joining Fenerbahçe, Özil has settled well into Turkish football, contributing with his creative skills and vision on the pitch. His influence on and off the pitch has been remarkable in Turkey, showing that there is still life in the German playmaker. 

Shkodran Mustafi 

Shkodran Mustafi was a solid presence in Arsenal's defence, but his performances were often marred by mistakes. After his contract was terminated in the summer, Mustafi joined Schalke 04, a club relegated to Bundesliga 2. Unfortunately, his problems continued and he was unable to help Schalke regain promotion, a difficult period for the German. central defender. 

Sokratis Papastathopoulos 

Another defender who left Arsenal in the summer, Sokratis, joined Turkish club Olympiacos. He was involved in their domestic campaign and provided stability to their defence. The experienced Greek international has shown that he still has what it takes to be a valuable asset at the highest level of football. 

Matt Macey 

Matt Macey, Arsenal's back-up goalkeeper, has left for Hibernian FC. Since his move to Scotland, Macey has been getting regular game time and gaining valuable experience. This move allowed him to continue his development and showcase his potential. 

David Luiz 

David Luiz's departure from Arsenal marked the end of his two-year spell at the club. He returned to Brazil and signed with Flamengo. Luiz has done well in the Brazilian league and has shown that he still has the skills and leadership that have made him a prominent figure in world football. 

Dani Ceballos 

Dani Ceballos has returned to his parent club Real Madrid after ending his loan spell at Arsenal. Despite his inconsistent performances in north London, Ceballos has shown improvement in Madrid. He is getting more and more playing time and is part of the team's success in La Liga. 

Joe Willock 

Joe Willock, one of Arsenal's promising young talents, has been sent on loan to Newcastle United in the 2020-2021 season. After an impressive loan spell, he made a permanent move to the Magpies in the summer. Willock continued to impress at Newcastle, showing off his goalscoring ability and earning a regular place in their midfield. 

Arsenal's summer departures have included a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. While some of them have found success at new clubs, others have faced challenges adapting to different environments. It's a reminder of the dynamic nature of football, where player performances can vary widely depending on team, league and individual circumstances. Arsenal fans will continue to follow these former players and wish them success while focusing on the future of their beloved club.