Mikel Arteta has revealed details of his post-match conversation with Aaron Ramsdale, saying he wishes the former Arsenal goalkeeper “all the best”.
Ramsdale made his first trip back to the Emirates Stadium following his summer move to Southampton, and was given a huge welcome by arsenal fans on his return – a reception that brought Saints’ goalkeeper to tears.
The goalkeeper, who has played 89 games in all competitions for the Gunners, was also greeted by manager Arteta after the full-time whistle, who stayed and chatted with him for some time afterwards. Arsenal win by 3-1.
Speaking to the press after the game, Arteta revealed the details of the conversation and said: “I wished him all the best, and I also congratulate them on the way they played.
“I wish him the best and I hope they do, especially for the manager and Aaron as well because they’re a very good team.”
Ahead of the game, Ramsdale spoke about his departure from Arsenal and admitted he had to leave the club after struggling for minutes in his final season on the books thanks to the arrival of David Raya, with just six . Premier League appearances in 2023/24.
“There’s not many people I’ve met personally who have said, ‘I wanted to win the Premier League as a kid sitting on the bench’. As much as that would be amazing and you’re in a team environment,” Ramsdale admitted.
“If I finish my career and I’ve played 10 years in the Premier League with four or five hundred games, or I’ve played 150 and won two Premier Leagues and an FA Cup by not playing for Arsenal, I’d much rather first choice.
“It was very difficult to leave this football club but when it came down to it, all I wanted to do was play and that’s what I’m doing now and I’m grateful to Southampton.”
