“Top player and top guy” - Jack Wilshere, William Saliba share messages for ‘friend’ who has now left Arsenal

Jack Wilshere and William Saliba recently left messages on Cedric's farewell Instagram post after the Portuguese defender announced his Arsenal exit.

The former Southampton defender became surplus to requirements in north London this season, with competition from Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu. He made just six appearances across competitions, playing a total of 193 minutes.

Amid his limited use, it seems reasonable that the Gunners let Cedric walk away upon his contracting running out in the summer. Sharing a goodbye message for the club's fans, Cedric wrote on Instagram:

"What a team and what a club. When I say a team, I mean exactly that, quality in every player, the professionalism that you show and the amazing human beings you guys are, so thank you!"

"When I say club, I mean all the departments, all the staff that is constantly putting all the hard hours on and off the pitch to make it possible to fight at the highest level."

He added:

"When I say club, it also means its heart and with this I mean you guys, THE FANS, that mad this journey so unreal and unforgettable."

Reacting to the post, former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere wrote:

"Top player and a top guy. All the best my friend."

Saliba, who shared the pitch on eight occasions with Cedric across competitions, commented:

"Good luck my friend."

Reactions to Cedric's post

The right-back signed permanently for Arsenal in the summer of 2020 and went on to make 64 appearances across competitions for the club, bagging two goals and five assists.

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When Fabrizio Romano spoke about Arsenal defender Cedric's future in March

Cedric Soares

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed in March this year that Arsenal defender Cedric had attracted interest from Turkish clubs and other outfits in Europe over a potential move.

At the time, Romano named Besiktas as a potential destination while claiming that nothing was yet set in stone. Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside for his Daily Briefing column, he said:

"Turkish clubs, including Besiktas, already wanted Soares in recent months, but he decided to stay. Now he will have multiple options around Europe. Nothing is close at the moment, but I'm told Cedric will consider different opportunities in order to make a final choice in the summer."

Cedric is 32 years old now and is probably looking towards the final stretch of his playing career. A move to Turkey or even out of Europe may suit the former Fulham defender.