Reiss Nelson Departs Arsenal After Mutual Contract Termination

Arsenal have confirmed that Reiss Nelson is no longer with the club following a mutual agreement to terminate his contract. The 26-year-old winger, who came through the Hale End academy, is now free to pursue opportunities elsewhere after a loan spell at Brentford.

A Fresh Start for Nelson

This decision marks a clean break as Nelson looks for more regular game time than he was able to secure under manager Mikel Arteta at the Emirates Stadium. Although he was set to enter the last year of his contract, which included an option to extend by 12 months, Arsenal chose to release him early to facilitate his next move.

Interest in Nelson remains strong, with multiple Premier League clubs and teams abroad watching closely. West Ham United have previously engaged in talks with Arsenal about a potential transfer, but Nelson is expected to carefully consider all offers before deciding on his future.

Injury Struggles and Limited Appearances

Nelson's 2025-26 season at Brentford was hampered by injuries and limited playing chances. He featured in just 13 games across all competitions, starting only three times in domestic cups. Prior to this, he spent the 2024-25 campaign on loan at Fulham but suffered a major hamstring injury in December 2024, cutting his season short.

From Promising Academy Talent to First-Team Contributor

Nelson's journey with Arsenal began in their youth ranks, where he was regarded as one of the most promising players of his generation. After signing his first professional contract in December 2016, he made his senior debut in August 2017 during the Community Shield match against Chelsea.

He had loan spells at Hoffenheim in 2018-19, scoring three goals in 22 appearances, and later at Feyenoord in 2021, where he helped the Dutch club reach the Europa Conference League final. Returning to Arsenal, his role as a valuable squad member earned him a new contract in 2023.

Legacy at Arsenal

Nelson leaves having played exactly 90 matches for Arsenal, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists. While he never quite reached the star status once predicted, moments like his stunning 97th-minute winner against Bournemouth in 2023 have made him a memorable figure among fans.

• Appearances for Arsenal: 90
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 9
• Loan Clubs: Hoffenheim, Feyenoord, Fulham, Brentford
• Last season appearances (Brentford): 13
• Contract status: Terminated by mutual consent