New Arsenal signing sends farewell message before completing 'landmark' transfer

Ozhianvuna is viewed as one of the brightest young talents in Irish football and has already made 37 senior appearances for reigning League of Ireland Premier Division champions Shamrock Rovers.

He also became the second-youngest player ever to feature in the UEFA Conference League last year.

His performances quickly caught the attention of Arsenal, who will add the Republic of Ireland Under-17 international to their academy ranks in the New Year.

Ozhianvuna - a boyhood Arsenal fan - has now said goodbye to Shamrock Rovers, where he has been since the age of six, penning a heartfelt statement on social media.

That was after a special presentation that recently took place with Ronan Finn, Shamrock Rovers’ director of football, plus their youth coach, Tony Cousins.

Victor Ozhianvuna in action for Shamrock Rovers during the UEFA Conference League

Getty

“After 11 amazing years, I’m saying goodbye to the club where I’ve made memories that I’ll never forget,” Ozhianvuna wrote on Instagram.

“I’ve met a lot of amazing people at the club and I’ve learned so much over the years as a footballer, but more importantly as a person and for that I’m forever grateful.

“I’d like to thank my coaches, my teammates and my friends and family for all the help over the years. I’d also like to thank the supporters for the constant love and support they’ve shown to me and to the club.

“The last few months have been difficult with an injury and I’m gutted to have not been able to play, but I couldn’t have asked for a better way to sign off than winning the league and lifting the trophy in front of the fans.

“As I move on to the next stage in my career, I’ll never forget the club that gave me a chance and I’m proud to say I’ve played for The Hoops. Forever grateful, Forever a Hoop.”

Ozhianvuna has not played since May due to a back injury and Shamrock Rovers’ season is now over following a 3-1 defeat at Dundalk on Friday that came before they lifted the league title.

He played at the U17 World Cup in Qatar last year, but won’t be involved in this month’s tournament.

The deal to take Ozhianvuna to Arsenal is believed to be worth around £1.7million and was described at the time by Shamrock Rovers as a “landmark transfer in Irish football”.

“Delighted to have signed for this amazing club that I have supported since I was a boy,” Ozhianvuna said when his switch to Arsenal was announced. “Excited to get started.

“Thank you to everyone who has helped me get here and thank you God for everything you’ve done me.”