Ovie Ejeheri, a promising young goalkeeper, has taken to social media to announce his departure from Premier League club Arsenal after a thirteen-year association, according to All Nigeria Soccer. The 2023 Flying Eagles invitee will leave the Emirates Stadium when his contract expires on June 30, 2024.
Ejeheri joined the Gunners as a schoolboy at U9 level, rising through the ranks to sign his first professional contract in the summer of 2021. During his time at the club, he made 21 appearances in the Premier League 2 and also played in the U18 Premier League, FA Youth Cup, and EFL Trophy.
Although he didn't make it to the matchday squad for a first-team game, manager Mikel Arteta invited him to train with the senior players on numerous occasions. Ejeheri's development and potential were recognized when he was called up to train with the Flying Eagles in January 2023, ahead of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The towering goalkeeper enjoyed loan spells at National League South side Chelmsford City and SJK Seinäjoki in Finland last season, keeping an impressive 20 clean sheets in league matches for both clubs.
In an emotional message on Instagram, Ejeheri wrote: "13 years! 8-21. From a boy to a man. Forever grateful to share so many memories over the years at the Academy with everyone. Honestly a miracle to have made it this far. Now it's time to fly."
Ejeheri's departure marks the end of an era, but he is ready to take on new challenges and continue his growth as a player. He is the second Nigerian goalkeeper set to leave Arsenal this summer, following in the footsteps of Arthur Okonkwo.