Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno has spoken publicly for the first time after being dropped as the club’s number one by manager Mikel Arteta.
The German international remains philosophical about the situation but claims he doesn’t know exactly why he has been overlooked in favour of Aaron Ramsdale:
“There was no clear reason why I was out, but it had nothing to do with my performance. He [Arteta] is the trainer, he decides. Of course, it’s difficult for me.”
Leno has been heavily linked with Inter Milan in recent days and the 29-year-old was asked to comment on the rumours. He was pretty non-committal, stating he would reconsider his position in January, but most fans on Twitter would prefer to see him leave:
we should sell him
— ahmed🪐 (@4ahmedPF) September 29, 2021
Yeah get this guy out, if he can’t even see the reason he’s been dropped he’ll never improve.
— JoshAFC (@josh_afc) September 29, 2021
You have to feel for Leno! Nice guy and a good GK.. unfortunately Ramsdale fits the style of play right now..
— DESEUN (@_deseun_) September 29, 2021
Does he not realize how poorly he started the season? I don’t hate Leno, but he’s not exactly been great, especially distribution-wise. Plus Ramsdale came in & he’s on form right now, it would be detrimental to the whole squad if they take him out now.
— The Arsenal (@ayears3nal) September 29, 2021
I do like Leno, but it’s clear that Ramsdale can play the way that Arteta wants. Leno can’t use his feet and play out from the back and that was obvious in the City 5-0 hammering.
— JVMES (@itJVMES) September 29, 2021
Feel for him. Hope he gets a move since hes certainly not a no1 now . still a quality player
— Vishu. (@VigorousWenger) September 29, 2021
Grab 25 million for him and sign another back up GK. Ramsdale is unequivocally number 1 now
— Jordan Walsh-Smith (@JordanWSmith21) September 29, 2021
Good pro. Appreciate that. Think we all know that he’s Arsenal race is run and he’ll be moving on. Maybe even in January if we find a decent no.2
— kris (@BigBossDawg84) September 29, 2021
While Ramsdale has looked impressive since being handed his opportunity by Arteta, it does seem as though Leno is hedging his bets, and waiting to see what happens with his teammate’s performances over the coming weeks and months.
If there are any errors or poor performances, it seems the German will be waiting in the wings to regain his place.