Former Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale says he did everything possible to make Mikel Arteta change his mind before eventually making a switch to Southampton in the summer.
Ramsdale’s exit from Arsenal came as a result of Arteta’s preference to field fellow Spaniard David Raya.
Raya was brought in on a season-long loan from Brentford at the start of last season and performed superbly as the Gunners came close to ending their 20-year Premier League title drought.
Ramsdale, who has been Arsenal’s No.1 after arriving at the club in 2021, was restricted to just six league appearances last term and things were unlikely to improve this season after the Gunners tied Raya down to a permanent deal.
The England international is in the process of reigniting his career at Southampton and admits that despite his disappointing exit, he holds no grudges against his former employers.
“No, I’ve been around football long enough that the manager’s decision is the manager’s decision,” Ramsdale said on talkSPORT.
“I tried my best to change his mind and force my way back in. His mind was set and at the same time David had a great season.
“You can have all the upset or qualms about being taken out but when someone else is delivering, you’ve just got to take it on the chin.
“It was tough but I’ve found a new home and I’m looking forward to playing again. You move on, there’s no bad blood and you’ve got to restart your career again.
“It was a really difficult season but my character and personality, I started the game by enjoying it but when it gets taken away, it’s tough.
“That’s why unfortunately you have to move on but I’m happy about where I’m at now.”
