As the news trickled in that Theo Walcott had officially signed for Everton, many Arsenal fans felt neither joy nor contempt – it was simply a departure that felt right.
Moderately talented, sometimes brilliant, occasionally frustrating – his 12 years at the club almost seem to mirror the second half of Wenger’s tenure.
Signed at the tender age of 16, taken to the World Cup at 17, and making his Premier League debut a few months later, it was clear Walcott’s career would take no ordinary path.
Indeed, many magical moments were sparked throughout his Arsenal career – from the League Cup Final goal against Chelsea in 2007 to the opener in the 2015 FA Cup Final. The famous, mazy run to set up Adebayor in the Champions League. The slip and quick recovery to put us ahead at Stamford Bridge. The ‘2-0′ gesture’ in the North London Derby. I couldn’t do justice to some of the times Walcott has provided the fans with.
Yet, there were low points. Stretches of inconsistency, tendencies to go missing in games, and begrudging injuries have tainted his time in North London.
However, 108 goals in almost 400 appearances for the club shows a dedication and service that few have provided in the recent history of the club.
He may return to the Emirates in the near future; but this time, in the colours of blue for Everton. For the Emirates faithful, it’ll be another chance to see the pacy winger make runs in behind, perhaps go missing for large spells of the game. In any sense, it’s one more chance to say goodbye to Theo.
