Arsenal full-back, Cedric Soares, is reportedly set to part ways with the club when his contract expires this summer. The 32-year-old has been largely relegated to the sidelines for most of the 2023-24 season, having fallen out of favour at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite his ability to play on either side of defence, manager Mikel Arteta has shown preference for other players such as Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior. Consequently, Cedric has had limited game time this season with only five competitive appearances under his belt - just one from kick-off.
Although he featured in three out of Arsenal's last four league matches, he hasn't made it into a starting lineup for a top-flight game this term.
Cedric remained professional despite not in plans for long time
With Cedric now on the fringes of Arsenal's squad plans, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that he will be allowed to leave as a free agent at season end. As his contract enters its final three months, there seems little interest from Arsenal in extending his tenure.
However true professional that he is; Cedric remains fully committed to serving Arsenal until his contract officially ends on June 30th.
The former Portugal international was rumoured for a move to Turkey earlier in January but no transfer materialised then. However ahead of the summer transfer window opening up again; several European clubs have already expressed interest in acquiring him.
The Portuguese will look to reignite his career
Cedric joined Emirates Stadium four years ago from Southampton initially on a six-month loan deal back in January 2020. Since then he has made an overall contribution of two goals and five assists across 62 appearances for the club.
He also spent half of last season on loan at Fulham, featuring in just six Premier League matches.
Cedric will be hoping to get some game time when Arsenal returns from the international break for a crucial Premier League match against Manchester City on March 31. This could potentially be one of his last appearances in an Arsenal shirt, marking the end of an era for both him and the club.
While Cedric's departure may not come as a surprise given his limited involvement this season, it does mark the end of a player who has always shown commitment and professionalism during his time at Arsenal. His next move will certainly be watched with interest by fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike.
