Reiss Nelson Departs Arsenal After Mutual Contract Termination
Arsenal and Reiss Nelson have agreed to end their contract by mutual consent. The 26-year-old forward, an academy product from Hale End, is now a free agent following his loan spell at Brentford and is looking for a new club to revive his career.
Mutual Decision for a Fresh Start
The split comes as Nelson aims for more regular playing time, which manager Mikel Arteta could not guarantee at the Emirates Stadium. Even though he was entering the final year of his contract, which included an option for an additional season, Arsenal decided to release him early to facilitate his move.
Several clubs, both in the Premier League and abroad, are showing interest. West Ham United has already engaged in talks with Arsenal about a possible transfer. Nelson plans to carefully evaluate his options before making a commitment to his next team.
Injury Challenges and Limited Appearances
During the 2025-26 season, Nelson was on loan at Brentford but struggled with injuries and lack of game time. He appeared 13 times across all competitions, starting only three matches, all in domestic cup games.
Before Brentford, he spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Fulham, but a serious hamstring injury in December 2024 cut his season short.
From Academy Prospect to Senior Squad Member
Nelson’s Arsenal journey began at the Hale End academy, where he was seen as one of the brightest talents. Signing his first professional deal in December 2016, he made his senior debut in August 2017 during the Community Shield against Chelsea.
After limited first-team chances, he went on loan to Hoffenheim in Germany for the 2018-19 season, scoring three goals in 22 appearances. A subsequent loan to Feyenoord in 2021 saw him help the Dutch team reach the Europa Conference League final. His impact off the bench earned him a contract extension in 2023.
Legacy at Arsenal
Nelson leaves having played exactly 90 matches for Arsenal, scoring eight goals and assisting nine. Though he never reached the superstar status some expected, moments like his 97th-minute winner against Bournemouth in 2023 will be fondly remembered by fans.
- Appearances for Arsenal: 90
- Goals scored: 8
- Assists: 9
- Loan Clubs: Hoffenheim, Feyenoord, Fulham, Brentford
- Notable Achievement: 97th-minute winner vs Bournemouth (2023)
