Benayoun Confirms Exit

Yossi Benayoun confirmed that he will be leaving Arsenal this summer via his Twitter account today. The Israeli had spent the season on loan at the Gunners from London rivals Chelsea, with a view of a permanent deal at the end of it. Benayoun played a big part in Arsenal’s qualification for the Champions League next season and was a very popular figure amongst the club’s fans.

"Benayoun tweeted: “My loan spell with Arsenal will be officially over tomorrow..I want to say again a big thanks to the fans and the club for the opportunity and the great support and I wish this club all the very best!”"

I had hoped that Yossi would be staying with the club next season. He would have been available on the cheap, was popular at the club and didn’t mind being a squad player either. He would have certainly been a good rotation option for a couple of years or so, despite his age. From what he tweeted, it certainly doesn’t sound as if Arsenal are interested in keeping hold of him next season, so I would like to take the opportunity to thank Yossi for all his hard work last season and to wish him the best of luck for the rest of his career. Thanks for everything, Yossi!.