Arsenal have officially confirmed the departure of Michal Rosiak, with the young Polish talent declining the club’s offer to extend his contract beyond June 30.
Listed earlier in the summer as one of the players still in discussions, Rosiak was seen as a possible long-term project. However, it now appears that the 19-year-old decided his future lies elsewhere. His name featured among those released in the club’s retained list published on the official website.
Rosiak’s exit raises questions over Arsenal’s youth development path
Rosiak made 26 appearances for the academy in 2024/25 and was widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players at youth level. His highlight reel includes standout performances in the UEFA Youth League and a dramatic free-kick goal in the FA Youth Cup.
His ability to function both as a right-back and in defensive midfield made him a valuable asset for the u21s. He even earned a place on the bench during Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid, though he didn’t make an appearance.
Given Arsenal’s current need for squad depth and the growing emphasis on homegrown talent, losing Rosiak could be seen as a misstep. While he never made a senior appearance, the fact that he was close to the first team reflects the potential Arsenal are now waving goodbye to.
Arsenal can still get a compensation for Rosiak
Despite leaving on a free, Arsenal will receive a training compensation fee from whichever club signs Rosiak next. This is due to the fact that he was under 23 and had been offered a new deal, as per FIFA regulations.
Although his squad number 52 was left unassigned, possibly as a placeholder in case of a late U-turn, the lack of involvement in preseason training or early u21 friendlies signalled that a departure was imminent.
What do I think about this?
Letting Michal Rosiak leave may not seem seismic today, but Arsenal’s decision could easily come under scrutiny in the future if the teenager lives up to the potential many saw in him. With the right development and first-team chances elsewhere, this could be one of those quiet exits that ends up looking costly in hindsight.
