Former Leeds United goalkeeper was officially unveiled as an Arsenal player this week. The Frenchman’s time at Elland Road came to an end this summer.
The club decided against giving him a new contract, which brought an end to his seven-year stay.
His stay at the club was always going to be headed to this after what happened in the Championship last year. Daniel Farke benched him after a couple of errors during the run-in.
Karl Darlow stepped in as the club won the league on the final day.
Since then, Meslier has not been in the first team picture – Farke even said he was the third choice last year.
Illan Meslier first back at critics after Leeds United departure
This week saw the former Leeds United man linked with a move to Arsenal, with a deal confirmed on Thursday.
The news came as a bit of surprise from the fanbase.
Many expected him to go back to France or play in Europe, but Arsenal took the chance to sign him.
In his first media engagement for the club, he mentioned that last year was difficult for him as he did not play. Meslier also mentioned that he wants to prove that he is still at a high level.
“Last season was a special year, strangely enough for me. Unfortunately, this happens a lot in the careers of players. But I never give up. I keep working very hard every day, training, always being ready for the players who need help.
“I worked a lot mentally because I had a different perspective on football and training. It helped me a lot, to be honest. So I come back this year with a lot of anger and determination. I want to give everything and show my level is still high and that Arsenal did a great job to take me.”
READ MORE: Former Leeds United promotion hero to join Arsenal pending medical
Whites will need a goalkeeper this summer
Meslier’s departure will be a blow for the Whites this summer.
A goalkeeping crisis has emerged at the club over the last couple of weeks. Karl Darlow is now a free agent, and he has interest from Manchester United and Everton.
As things stand, Lucas Perri is the only first team keeper under contract.
Alex Cairns verbally agreed to a new deal, which could be confirmed in the coming weeks. But the numbers in the goalkeeping department are very low.
The 49ers need to invest in the position long-term, like they did when they signed Meslier back in 2020.
