Emile Smith Rowe promptly made a formidable impression for Fulham by netting a mere seven minutes into his inaugural appearance.

The Cottagers recently obtained the midfielder in a £34 million deal, setting a new record for the club. This marked the end of his 14-year period in north London.

Smith Rowe got his Fulham career off to a perfect startCredit: Rex

The 24-year-old player, who is highly respected by Arsenal supporters, has already shown that Arsenal might regret their choice to let him leave. This is evident from his immediate impact after being substituted in for the second half.

Smith Rowe came on as a replacement during a pre-season friendly in Portugal against Sevilla, while his team was behind by two goals. He expeditiously diminished the deficit by executing a diving header upon receipt of a cross from Antonee Robinson.

While Fulham supporters are delighted to witness their recent signing’s goal-scoring prowess, Arsenal fans are already experiencing the void left by the departure of a player who emerged from their development academy at Hale End.

“I will lament his absence from Arsenal,” expressed one fan on social media, while another opined: “It was a mistake to part ways with this individual.”

Another advocate expressed on X: “I will deeply miss Smith Rowe.”

This fan expressed concern that players Alex Iwobi and Smith Rowe may potentially cause our team to lose the league by a single point.

“That is the entirety of it.” Another Arsenal supporter expressed their desire for his return, while another simply voiced their emotional response with the phrase “Tears in my eyes”.

Smith Rowe, who played in 115 matches for Arsenal, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists, expressed his joy upon finalising his transfer to west London.

Smith Rowe conveyed his enthusiasm to Fulham’s official website, stating: “I have arrived at last, and I am genuinely delighted for myself and my family. This is a significant and joyous occasion.”

“I am filled with anticipation and enthusiasm. My primary objective was to arrive at this location as expeditiously as possible in order to commence my activities with my fellow teammates.”

The midfielder netted a diving header just five minutes into his Fulham debutCredit: Rex

“Listening to the project, speaking to the manager [Marco Silva], and seeing what players we have here already, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.”

Arteta meanwhile has been left gutted by his sale, as he remarked: “Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him.

“He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us.

“He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud.

“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.

“Emile is loved by everyone at the club and leaves us with our gratitude, absolute respect and best wishes.

“We all wish Emile and his family well at Fulham.”