David Luiz reacts as youngster compared to Tomas Rosicky announces Arsenal exit

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David Luiz has now reacted on Instagram after a young talent announced his departure from Arsenal.

It is that – often brutal – time of the year when clubs announce a list of those who have been released upon the expiry of their contract, with Cedric Soares and Mohamed Elneny the two most senior players to depart.

On Arsenal‘s released list – which is 22 players strong – a surprising name was seen, and David Luiz has now reacted to the news…

Cirjan Catalin announces Arsenal exit

Cirjan Catalin has now posted on Instagram to share his appreciation for Arsenal, as his four-year stay at the Emirates Stadium comes to an end.

The Romanian wonderkid arrived at the Emirates Stadium back in 2019 after being plucked from Viitorul Domnesti – going on to make 36 appearances for the Arsenal U21 side, and 25 appearances for the U18 side.

Catalin was even compared to Tomas Rosicky by Next Generation Arsenal – a page dedicated to Hale End’s finest talents.

After being told he would be released, the 21-year-old wrote: “Thanks @arsenal!❤️ I joined the club as a kid and I left like a man! I have the best memories but I went through some very tough situations like my injuries.

“I fell but I always came back better and stronger but I couldn’t do all of this without the help and support from all the staff and players. I was so lucky to be able to play and learn from some of the best players in the world and the best coaches. Now it’s time to move on and start a new chapter in my career!🙏🏽”

Several players responded, with David Luiz writing “👏👏❤️” in the comments section, while Ethan Nwaneri also posted a heart emoji.

David Luiz looked out for the Romanian

The Brazilian took Catalin under his wing at the Emirates Stadium, sitting down for a private chat with the youngster after he suffered a serious knee injury, before continuing to encourage the midfielder with several messages on Instagram during his recovery.

Speaking to The Athletic back in September 2022, the youngster said: “He (Luiz) told me to go to the first-team changing room. I talked with him for an hour. He told me that he went through this too and I just had to be strong. It had a great impact and gave me power to go through it.

“I waited a week and a half for my surgery but after that talk, I started doing my rehab. I started doing everything to come back to the pitch. It was great to talk to him and I want to thank him. He’s following me on Instagram and was replying to my stories about me working and coming on back to the pitch.”

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It is always nice to hear when a senior player looks out for a young talent, and hopefully, Catalin receives similar warmth at his next club.