“You deserve it all” - Arsenal superstar sends message to Ivan Toney after Saudi Pro League switch with Al Ahli
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has congratulated Ivan Toney on his switch to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli. The England international took to social media to commend his compatriot for the move.
Toney was reportedly the subject of interest from various Premier League outfits during his time at Brentford. The English striker's exploits in the 2022-23 campaign led to links with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal. Toney scored 21 goals and provided five assists in 35 appearances across competitions for Brentford that term.
The Gunners have been in the market for a striker for quite some time now, with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta keen to reinforce his options up top. They have signed David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, and Mikel Merino this summer on permanent deals. However, their only signing in attack is Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling, whom they secured on a season-long loan.
The Gunners couldn't sign Toney as Al Ahli onboarded the 28-year-old in a reported £40 million deal. Following his switch to the Middle East, Toney posted a picture on Instagram of himself in his new side's colors with a caption that read:
"Thank you for the incredible welcome in Jeddah! I’m really happy to be here and looking forward to making my debut with @alahliclub.sa 🇸🇦 Inshallah we will have a great season!"👊🏾
Declan Rice sent a congratulatory message to Toney as he commented:
"You deserve it all brother."
The Gunners will next face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on 15 September.
"I don't get this" - Pundit questions Arsenal's move for Chelsea star Raheem Sterling
ESPN pundit Shaka Hislop could not fathom why Arsenal decided to sign Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan this summer. He believes the England international has nothing to offer.
Sterling has failed to impress with his performances over the past two seasons for the Blues. He has managed just 19 goals and 12 assists in 81 appearances since his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
After Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca made it clear that the 29-year-old wasn't in his plans for the club, Sterling completed his switch to north London. However, Hislop has questioned the Gunners' decision, criticizing Sterling's form over the last two years.
He said:
"I have to say I don't get this, I really don't. I understand Arsenal want bodies, want pedigree and they find that in Raheem Sterling, but Sterling has done nothing in the last two years that suggests he makes Arsenal any better even as a squad player.
"And so if we are here talking about a £20million package or £150,000 a week for a player who is there to cover Saka, to give him a rest, to maybe add some experience to a dressing room, I find that a lot of money to pay for a player who doesn't make you better. I just don't see. I don't see the value in this."