Arsenal prospect Max Dowman has sent a warm two-word tribute to Samuel Onyekachukwu after the youngster’s exit from the club was confirmed. Onyekachukwu, 18, is set to leave the Gunners when his contract expires at the end of June 2026, bringing an end to a seven-year spell in north London. He joined Arsenal from Watford’s academy at the age of 11 and made 17 appearances for the club’s youth sides during the 2025/26 season.
Onyekachukwu marked the announcement with an emotional message on Instagram, describing his departure as a difficult moment but also one filled with gratitude. He thanked the coaches, staff, teammates and supporters who shaped his journey at Arsenal, saying that wearing the badge had been a privilege and that he would always be proud of his time at the club. He also expressed faith that “the best is yet to come” as he moves on to the next stage of his career.
Dowman, who is regarded as one of Arsenal’s brightest young talents, responded in the comments with “My brother” and two heart emojis, underlining the strong bond among the club’s academy players. Several of Onyekachukwu’s teammates also sent messages of support. Arsenal Under-18 goalkeeper Khari Ranson wished him good luck, while Jack Porter posted a short farewell message. Ife Ibrahim, who made his senior Arsenal debut in the Champions League win over FC Kairat in January 2026, also commented, alongside Manchester United youngster and former Arsenal player Chido Obi.
Arsenal confirmed last week that Onyekachukwu was among a group of 15 players leaving the club this summer. The departures include several academy players such as Sam Chapman, Harrison Dudziak, Seb Ferdinand, Cam’ron Ismail, Will Lannin-Sweet, Josh Nichols and Alexei Rojas-Federushchenko. The club also announced a number of exits from the women’s team, including Katie McCabe, Beth Mead, Manuela Zinsberger, Laia Codina, Victoria Pelova, Barbora Votikova and Naomi Williams.
In a statement, Arsenal thanked all departing players for their contribution to the club and said they would always remain part of the Arsenal family. The club added that any further contract extensions, arrivals, re-joinings or departures would be announced officially when confirmed.
The news comes during an active period for Arsenal’s academy and senior setup, with the club continuing to promote young talent while preparing for the next phase of squad changes ahead of the new season.
