Ljungberg quits Arsenal

ARSENAL have suffered a pre-season blow after club legend Freddie Ljungberg resigned from his position as first-team coach.

The Swede has played a key role under Mikel Arteta but he has taken the shock decision to leave to further his coaching career.

Ljungberg has held various positions at the club, including interim head coach following the departure of Unai Emery last season.

Indeed, he has played an important part in nurturing a host of the club’s best youngsters during his role as an academy coach, a number of whom are part of Arteta’s first-team squad including the likes of Bukayo Saka, Reiss Nelson, Joe Willock and Eddie Nketiah.

Ljungberg’s departure leaves a major void in Arteta’s team given his knowledge and familiarity with a number of his talented youngsters. The 43-year-old was viewed as an integral member of the coaching staff by the club’s hierarchy.

‘I have decided to leave my first-team assistant coaching role at Arsenal to progress my management experience,’ Ljungberg wrote on Twitter. ‘I have been involved with this club on and off since 1998 and am grateful for all the opportunities they have given me as a player and a coach.

‘I wish Mikel and all the team every success for the season ahead. Thanks also to the fans for their constant support and for always being by my side. I hope we will all meet again soon.’

Saka said on Twitter: ‘You did so much for me and for our club! Forever grateful. Legend.’

Ljungberg played for Arsenal between 1998 and 2007, making 325 appearances. He went on to play for West Ham and Seattle Sounders before retiring and joining Arsenal as an ambassador in 2013.