This archive report was first published on 11 July 2019.
July 11, 2019
Arsenal captain Laurent Koscielny has sparked controversy by refusing to travel with the team for their pre-season tour in the US.
According to an official statement from the club, Koscielny has refused to join the team for the tour, citing a desire to terminate his contract.
The 33-year-old Frenchman is in the final year of his deal and has reportedly received three offers from Ligue 1 clubs, including a three-year contract from Bordeaux.
Koscielny has been a key player for Arsenal since joining the club in 2010, making 353 appearances and scoring 27 goals.
However, he has not been able to help the team win a league title during his time at the Emirates.
The club has expressed disappointment at Koscielny's actions, stating that they are against their clear instructions.
"We are very disappointed by Laurent's actions, which are against our clear instructions," the statement read.
"We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time."
