Emile Smith-Rowe has been given the number 10 jersey by Arsenal, after he signed a new long-term contract that will see him continue at the club, until 2026.
Emile Smith-Rowe new contract is coming despite him being linked with a move to Aston Villa and him being handed the iconic number 10 jersey which has been vacant since Mesut Ozil left the club, is a sign that the club and manager, Mikel Arteta want him to take on more responsibility in the team.
According to reports, Emile Smith-Rowe deal was due to expire in 2023 and Villa were keen to tempt him away, making two bids of £25m and £30m. But Arsenal have managed to convince him his long-term future remains at the Emirates and extend his stay.
Smith Rowe, who made his debut in 2018, established himself in Arsenal’s first team during a breakout campaign for the 20 year-old last season.
His increased involvement coincided with the ending of Arsenal’s winter slump in form and he finished the season with four goals and eight assists in 33 appearances and also one of their most influential players.
Manager Mikel Arteta said: ‘As we all saw last season, Emile is an intelligent player with excellent ability.
‘His sharpness on the turn and exceptional vision have already made him a key player for us. His attitude and willingness to learn have also been very impressive.
‘Huge credit to our team in our academy who have given Emile a great education and have worked superbly to help with his development through the age groups.
‘Along with the first team staff, huge credit also goes to our senior players, who have played such an important role to help Emile develop, gain confidence and perform the way he did last season. I know the fans will join us in being delighted that Emile has committed his future to the Club.
‘We’re now looking forward to helping him develop further and seeing him become even more important to the strong young team we’re building.’
As well as the new contract, handing Smith Rowe the shirt that has also been previously worn by the likes of Jack Wilshere, Robin van Persie and Dennis Bergkamp among others, is another show of faith from Arsenal.
Arsenal technical director Edu said: ‘This is another important step forward for us and we’re all delighted that Emile has signed a new long-term contract. It’s great to see another young player develop through our academy system to become a key part of our first team.
‘Emile is a player who represents the future of the Club and this is why we have given him the number 10 shirt. We have trust in Emile and we know he has the potential to be a beautiful player for many years to come.’