Leaving Arsenal the toughest decision for Henry

LONDON: Thierry Henry said deciding to leave Arsenal for Barcelona was the most “difficult decision of his life”.

In a message on Arsenal’s website on Saturday, the 29-year-old Frenchman tried to reassure fans that his departure would not mark the end of a golden era in the club’s history, saying they would soon find a new hero.

“The team here is growing and there is some amazing talent here and I do think this is the right time for Robin van Persie, Emmanuel Adebayor and Nicklas Bendtner, who is coming back from Birmingham, to shine,” Henry said.

“Hopefully they will do it. As soon as you know they can do it, they will forget about me, that’s the way it is.

“When Patrick (Vieira) left everyone was devastated, including me, and then after that a little guy came around called Cesc Fabregas. Although I didn’t agree with it, everyone started saying ‘who needs Patrick Vieira?’

“Today is a very sad day for me,” he added. “Whatever people are going to talk or read or see into it, it is a very sad for me. The club is in my heart and will remain in my heart forever.” Henry’s career flourished at Arsenal, where Wenger turned him into one of the most lethal strikers in Europe.

Wenger’s future at Arsenal has been under a cloud since director and close friend David Dein left the club.

“After Dein left that unsettled the team and the boss. Especially as at the moment he has not committed himself to the club.

“He said he will see out his contract but you cannot be sure if he is going to go or stay. Hopefully he is going to stay but I need to be certain and reassured of that. I wasn’t and I have chosen to go.”

Arsenal announced that they had reached an agreement with Barcelona for the transfer of Henry for an estimated 24mil euros.

It is expected the deal will be completed today. – Reuters

source:the star