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Arsenal midfielder Charlie Patino has posted an emotional message on social media following confirmation of his departure from the Emirates.
Patino became an overnight sensation in 2021 when the then-18-year-old scored on his debut in a 5-1 win over Sunderland in the League Cup.
Many tipped him to become a top-class talent for Mikel Arteta for seasons to come, with Arsenal’s head of scouting Shaun O’Connor once describing him as the ‘best player who has ever walked through the doors at Hale End’.
However, the midfielder only went on to make two appearances for the Gunners as he spent the last two seasons on loan at Blackpool and Swansea.
The 20-year-old will now join Spanish second-tier side Deportivo La Coruna in a deal worth £1 million, although the transfer also includes a significant sell-on clause for Arsenal.
Announcing his departure to Spain in a post on Instagram, the academy graduate began: ‘Dear Arsenal fans.
‘Firstly, I just want to say thank you for all the amazing memories that I have had at this historic club. It has been an honour to represent Arsenal on and off the pitch.
‘I joined the club when I was 11 years old with a dream of one day making my debut for Arsenal. I was fortunate enough to make my dream a reality and for this I will always be grateful.
‘Thank you to the fans, team mates, coaches and everyone associated to the club. Best of luck for the future!!’
Patino becomes the second Hale End graduate to leave Arsenal this window after Emile-Smith Rowe completed his £34m move to Fulham.
And there could be a third to follow in the coming days as Eddie Nketiah closes in on a deal to join Crystal Palace.
The striker had been close to joining Nottingham Forest but that deal collapsed over the weekend after the club was unable to agree terms with the 25-year-old.
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