KOSCIELNY WANTS TO FORCE A MOVE OUT OF ARSENAL, FAILS TO TRAVEL WITH TEAM FOR PRE-SEASON TOUR

July 11, 2019

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Arsenal captain Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel with the squad on their pre-season tour to the United States, the club have announced.

The Frenchman was expected to be part of the squad flying to the USA on Thursday but the club have now said the 33-year-old will stay behind.

Sky Sports News understands Koscielny wants to return to France and has asked Arsenal to release him from his contract, which has one year remaining.

Arsenal said in a statement: “Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel to the US for our pre-season tour.

“We are very disappointed by Laurent’s actions, which are against our clear instructions.

“We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time.”

Koscielny remains an important player for Unai Emery. He appeared in 29 games for Arsenal in all competitions last season, starting 24.

In total, the France international has made 255 appearances for Arsenal in the Premier League, scoring 22 goals since joining from French side Lorient for £10m in July 2010.