Image Credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s transfer window in the summer of 2025 has been bustling, with key signings like goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea and midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad strengthening the squad for Premier League challenges.
The club also added depth in midfield by bringing in Christian Norgaard from Brentford, aiming to improve consistency after a competitive previous season.
Outgoings included loans and permanent deals, such as Raheem Sterling returning to Chelsea and Nuno Tavares moving to Lazio, freeing up space for new talent.
Amid these changes, former Arsenal winger Willian has made headlines by signing with Brazilian club Gremio on a free transfer.
The 37-year-old Brazilian agreed to a contract until the end of 2026, marking his return to South America after stints in Europe.
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Willian joined Arsenal in 2020 on a three-year deal after leaving Chelsea, where he had enjoyed trophy success including two Premier League titles.
Arsenal - Willian - Gremio
Former Arsenal winger Willian has made headlines by signing with Brazilian club Gremio on a free transfer. [Image Credit: Getty Images]
His time at the Emirates was brief and challenging, appearing in 37 matches across all competitions during the 2020-21 season.
He scored just one goal, an impressive free-kick against West Bromwich Albion, but struggled to replicate his Chelsea form under Mikel Arteta.
Mutual agreement led to his contract termination in 2021, allowing him to join Corinthians in Brazil for a short spell.
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Willian later revived his career in the Premier League with Fulham, contributing goals and assists over two seasons before his contract expired in 2025.
Now, at Gremio, he brings vast experience from over 700 career appearances, including Champions League outings with Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk.
Gremio, competing in Brazil’s Serie A, hopes Willian’s creativity and leadership will aid their push for continental qualification.
For Arsenal fans, Willian’s move evokes mixed memories of a talented player who didn’t quite fit the project’s timeline. Yet, his professionalism and skill remain respected, and many will wish him success in this new chapter back home.
This transfer highlights how former Gunners continue to influence global football, even years after leaving north London. As Arsenal focuses on their current roster, stories like Willian’s remind us of the club’s rich history with international stars.
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