Unai Emery reveals why Arsenal released Jack Wilshere

The midfielder has joined West Ham United on a free transfer

Jack Wilshere announced towards the end of the last month that he will leave Arsenal after failing to sign a contract extension with the club. He was included in the club’s released player list and has joined West Ham United on a free transfer.

The England International, who has been at the club since the age of 9, made it clear that his preferred option was to stay at his boyhood club even before Arsene Wenger retired. The Frenchman has also expressed his desire to keep him at the club beyond this summer.

The 26 year old was offered a new deal but had to take a 25 per cent pay-cut on his £120,000-a-week wages and was prepared to take the pay cut.

But the midfielder changed his mind after a meeting with the new manager Unai Emery as he was concerned about his role under him. The former PSG told him that he would likely to be a bit part player in the upcoming season.

He wanted to play regular football in the next season and feels it will stagnate his career if he doesn’t get regular game time. Thus deciding to leave the Gunners after staying 17 years at the club.

Emery has revealed that the club released Wilshere because he could not guarantee him a place in the Starting XI and claimed the discussions were conducted with respect.

“It was a tactical, technical decision,” he told Sky Sports. “The conversation with Wilshere was a very good conversation. I explained to him my opinion and how I want to build the team and I couldn’t say to him he’s going to play in the XI.

“Also, he explained to me the decision is not easy for him, but he wanted to choose the best option for him. Every time it was with respect.

“I know this player is very important for the supporters, he grew up here with Arsenal. But I don’t see a place for him in the starting XI. It’s because of that he has chosen to leave and I respect this.”