Who are the Arsenal players who thrived after leaving the Club and why did they succeed?

Throughout its storied history, Arsenal has seen numerous players come and go. While many have thrived under the Gunners' banner, some struggled to make a significant impact during their tenure at the club. Interestingly, several of these players found their form and achieved notable success after departing from Arsenal. This article delves into the journeys of such individuals, exploring the factors that contributed to their resurgence post-Emirates.

Serge Gnabry: From North London Obscurity to Bavarian Stardom

Serge Gnabry's time at Arsenal was marred by limited opportunities and a lackluster loan spell at West Bromwich Albion, where then-manager Tony Pulis deemed him not ready for Premier League action. Frustrated by the lack of first-team chances, Gnabry returned to his native Germany, signing with Werder Bremen in 2016. His impressive performances there caught the attention of Bayern Munich, who secured his services in 2017.

At Bayern, Gnabry blossomed into one of Europe's most formidable wingers, playing a pivotal role in their treble-winning 2019-2020 season, including a standout four-goal performance against Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Champions League. His journey underscores the importance of the right environment and trust in a player's development.

Carlos Vela: Rediscovering Joy in the Basque Country

Mexican forward Carlos Vela joined Arsenal amid much fanfare but found it challenging to secure a regular starting position. Despite showcasing glimpses of his talent, including a memorable hat-trick against Sheffield United in the League Cup, consistency eluded him. A loan move to Real Sociedad in 2011 became the turning point of his career.

The Spanish club's playing style suited Vela's strengths, allowing him to flourish. He eventually made the move permanent, becoming a fan favorite and one of La Liga's standout performers during his tenure. Vela's success in Spain highlighted how a change in environment and system can rejuvenate a player's career.

Ismaël Bennacer: From Arsenal's Periphery to AC Milan's Midfield Maestro

Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer's stint at Arsenal was brief, with his only first-team appearance coming in a League Cup match. Seeking regular playing time, Bennacer transferred to Italian side Empoli in 2017. His performances in Serie B were instrumental in Empoli's promotion to Serie A, showcasing his vision and composure on the ball.

AC Milan took notice and signed him in 2019. At Milan, Bennacer became a linchpin in midfield, earning accolades for his tactical intelligence and ball-winning abilities, contributing significantly to the club's resurgence in Italian football.

Nicolas Anelka: The Prodigious Talent Who Wandered

French striker Nicolas Anelka burst onto the scene with Arsenal as a teenager, playing a crucial role in their 1997-1998 Premier League and FA Cup double. However, his time in North London was short-lived, as he moved to Real Madrid in 1999. Anelka's career became a tapestry of numerous clubs across Europe and beyond, including notable stints at Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea.

While his journey was nomadic, Anelka found success post-Arsenal, winning league titles and domestic cups, and even securing the Premier League Golden Boot with Chelsea in the 2008-2009 season. His career exemplifies how a player can harness early potential into sustained success, even if the path is unconventional.

Nuno Tavares: From Arsenal's Fringes to Serie A Sensation

Portuguese left-back Nuno Tavares joined Arsenal with promise but struggled to find consistency, leading to limited opportunities under manager Mikel Arteta. A loan move to Lazio in 2024 provided Tavares with a fresh start. In Serie A, he revitalized his career, becoming a key contributor with multiple assists and solid defensive displays.

His resurgence in Italy not only boosted his confidence but also placed him among the top performers in his position within the league. Tavares' turnaround highlights the impact of a supportive environment and regular playing time on a player's development.

Factors Contributing to Post-Arsenal Success

Several elements can influence a player's improvement after leaving Arsenal:

• Playing Time: Regular first-team action is crucial for development and confidence.
• Tactical Fit: Joining a team whose playing style aligns with a player's strengths can enhance performance.
• Coaching: Guidance from managers who trust and understand a player's abilities can be transformative.
• Environment: A change in surroundings can rejuvenate a player's passion and motivation.

What You Should Know About Players Who Thrived After Leaving Arsenal

• Serge Gnabry struggled for opportunities at Arsenal but became a star at Bayern Munich, contributing significantly to their 2019-2020 treble.
• Carlos Vela found limited success in North London but revitalized his career at Real Sociedad, becoming one of La Liga's notable forwards.
• Ismaël Bennacer had minimal impact at Arsenal but developed into a key midfielder for AC Milan, aiding in their recent successes.
• Nicolas Anelka's brief yet impactful Arsenal tenure was followed by a successful, albeit itinerant, career across top European clubs.
• Nuno Tavares, after limited chances at Arsenal, excelled on loan at Lazio, becoming a standout performer in Serie A.