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Emile Smith Rowe put an end to speculation about joining Aston Villa this summer by signing a new long-term deal with Arsenal.
The midfielder has also taken the vacant number 10 shirt previously worn by Mesut Özil as a further indication of his importance to Arsenal.
He joined the first team around Christmas last season and established himself as a key figure under Mikel Arteta in the second half of the season.
Arteta has big plans for Smith Rowe and sees him as a crucial part of the club’s future, which is why Arsenal have never made offers for him.
Edu, Arsenal Technical Director, said: “This is another important step for us and we are all delighted that Emile has signed a new long-term contract.
“It’s great to see another young player develop into an important part of our first team through our academy system.
“Emile is a player who represents the future of the club and that’s why we gave him the # 10 shirt.
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“We trust Emile and know that he has the potential to be a beautiful player for years to come.”
