Former Arsenal star claims he will love to play for the club again if he has the chance
Former Arsenal captain Alexandre Lacazette has opened up about his deep affection for the club and his admiration for the current squad under Mikel Arteta. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, the French striker, who now plies his trade at Lyon, expressed a heartfelt desire to return to the North London club, admitting that Arsenal has reached a level of excellence he wished he could have experienced as a player.
“Arsenal Was Never This Better When I Was There”
Reflecting on his time at Arsenal, Lacazette acknowledged the struggles the team faced during his tenure. Joining the club in the summer of 2017 from Lyon for a then-club record fee, Lacazette endured several transitional years under managers Arsène Wenger, Unai Emery, and eventually Mikel Arteta. While he contributed important goals and won the FA Cup in 2020, the team was often inconsistent, missing out on Champions League football during much of his time.
“Arsenal was never this good when I was there,” Lacazette admitted. “Of course, we had great moments, and I will always cherish my time in London, but seeing what the team has become now—it’s incredible. The chemistry, the hunger, the quality of players… it’s on another level.”
“I Wish I Was Still There to Play With This Current Squad”
Lacazette went on to express his admiration for Arsenal’s current squad, which has risen to prominence under Arteta. With players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Ødegaard, and Declan Rice shining, the Gunners have become a formidable force in both the Premier League and Europe.
“I look at the young talents like Saka, Martinelli, and Ødegaard, and I think, ‘Wow, this is the Arsenal I always dreamed of playing for.’ The football they’re playing now is beautiful, and I wish I was still there to experience it with them,” Lacazette said with a sense of nostalgia.
“If I Ever Have the Chance, I Would Love to Play for the Team Again”
Despite moving back to Lyon in 2022, where he has rediscovered his scoring touch and leadership role, Lacazette did not shy away from admitting that Arsenal remains close to his heart.
“I still watch all their games, and I cheer for them like a true fan,” he shared. “If I ever have the chance, I would love to play for the team again. Arsenal is not just a club for me—it’s like a family. I’ll always feel connected to it.”
Lacazette’s Legacy at Arsenal
During his five-year stint at the Emirates, Lacazette made 206 appearances and scored 71 goals across all competitions. While he may not have reached the heights of some of Arsenal’s legendary strikers, he was a reliable presence in attack and often stepped up in crucial moments. His leadership qualities also came to the fore in his final season, where he captained the side during a transitional phase under Arteta.
Fans have fond memories of Lacazette’s passion, work ethic, and his partnership with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, which provided Arsenal supporters with some memorable moments.
A Potential Reunion?
While Lacazette is now 33 years old, his recent comments have sparked excitement among some Arsenal fans, who would welcome him back in a mentorship or backup role. However, with Arsenal currently boasting a strong forward line led by Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, a reunion seems unlikely.
Still, Lacazette’s remarks highlight the emotional bond many former players share with the club. His words serve as a testament to the progress Arsenal has made under Arteta, reigniting the pride and connection that players and fans alike feel for the club.
For now, Arsenal fans can only reminisce about Lacazette’s contributions while appreciating his continued support from afar. Regardless of whether he ever dons the famous red-and-white jersey again, Alexandre Lacazette’s love for Arsenal is undeniable—and it’s a sentiment that remains mutual.
