Aaron Ramsdale shares emotional message with Arsenal fans after signing long-term deal

Ramsdale has agreed a new contract with the club he joined in 2021

Sport Staff
Thursday 18 May 2023 17:45 BST
Comments
Aaron Ramsdale has penned a new long-term deal with Arsenal
Aaron Ramsdale has penned a new long-term deal with Arsenal (AP)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Aaron Ramsdale committed his future to Arsenal and shared an emotional and honest message with the fans after signing a new long-term contract.

The goalkeeper, who has already made 76 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions, has inked improved terms after an impressive season that has seen the club challenge for the Premier League title.

When Ramsdale first signed for the club in 2021 from Sheffield United, he joined on a reported four-year deal with the option of adding a fifth. Arsenal’s announcement does not state how long the new contract is for, although reports suggest it is until 2026 with the option of a further year once again.

“I know you guys (Arsenal fans) probably weren’t the most overexcited for the signing of myself, and I totally get it; I don’t have any right to come here and expect you all to rate me from the get-go,” Ramsdale told the club’s social media.

“This is a huge club, and it’s had some top-class goalkeepers along the way, but fair play: Once I got into the team and I got my chance, I felt like we understood each other a lot more.

“I feel your love, and I feel like you feel mine as well. Hopefully you get the idea that I give everything out there. It doesn’t matter how it happens, I take responsibility for keeping that ball out the back of the net. I’ll do anything in my power to get that clean sheet.

“Never doubt, when a result is going against us, we are all hurting inside the dressing room – players and staff equally.

“I know I’m not from around here, but you lot make me feel feel like I am. I get messages and love from people all around the world, so I know how big the club is. You guys have took my family in, making my dad feel like a superstar. It really gives a family feel to the football club.

“You make matchdays so special, and I can’t imagine anywhere else for my home stadium to be – or my home. I feel honoured that you guys have welcomed me in, and I feel honoured that the staff want me to stay.

“So, it was the easiest decision in the world to commit my future to ‘the Arsenal’. Let’s keep moving forward as a club and make some more special memories.”

Ramsdale praised the Arsenal fans for their support since he joined in 2021
Ramsdale praised the Arsenal fans for their support since he joined in 2021 (Getty Images)

His performances for the Gunners earned him an England call-up ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and Ramsdale has made three appearances for the national side.

“We’re all so happy that Aaron has signed a new contract,” head coach Mikel Arteta said.

“The way Aaron has developed over the past two years has been exceptional, with his performances, contribution and overall adaptation to the club.

“It’s great that we’re continuing to build our future with our biggest talents in our young squad. We’re all looking forward to enjoying many more years of Aaron the player and the person at the football club.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in