Arsenal are set to see several changes this summer as they plan for next season under Mikel Arteta with the Premier League title to defend
16:30, 01 Jun 2026
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Teenage Arsenal star Josh Nichols has confirmed he is leaving the club (Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Teenage right-back Josh Nichols has issued an emotional statement on social media after leaving Arsenal, expressing his true love for the club. The 19-year-old has left and joined Croatian side NK Kustosija.
Nichols arrived in north London aged eight and signed a professional contract with the Gunners in July 2024. He went on tour with Arsenal's first-team squad that summer before making his first-team debut in September 2024 during the 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Bolton Wanderers.
The defender was part of Arsenal's Premier League-winning squad this season, having been named on the bench a few times by Mikel Arteta. However, the young star did not feature in the league.
And now the Gunners academy graduate will look to prove himself in Croatia after struggling to break into Arteta's plans. Nichols has agreed a two-year deal and released a statement on Instagram to say goodbye to Arsenal.
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He said: "It’s hard to put into words what this club means to me. This hasn’t just been a team I’ve played for. it’s been a second family, a place where I started as a little boy, made lifelong memories, and shared unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch with my brothers!
"Over the past decade, I’ve experienced the highs, the lows, the victories, the disappointments, and everything in between. Through it all, my love for this club has never changed.
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"Wearing this badge has always been an honour, and every time I stepped onto the pitch, I gave everything I had because this club means so much to me."I want to thank every teammate, coach, supporter, and most importantly my family for making these years so special. I loved every single moment.
"Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you @arsenal," followed by a red love heart emoji.
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The defender transitioned from Hale End to Sobha Realty as a scholar, which he described as 'more intense.' He credited Under-18s coach and former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.
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The teenager said: "Being coached by Jack Wilshere in the Under-18s is a real blessing, because he's got such invaluable experience and was playing first-team at the ages we're at now.
"He's so good to work with and I enjoy every minute of it."
The defender is eligible to represent England as he was born in London. However, he also qualifies for Nigeria due to his mother's heritage, while his father's side of the family have links to Jamaica and Guyana - giving the youngster a plethora of options when it comes to a possible future on the international stage.