Mathieu Flamini left Arsenal on a free transfer in 2008, and the circle of life is almost complete.
Frenchman Mathieu Flamini has had a mixed time at AC Milan, and it is looking like ending on a sour note.
He was criticised by Arsenal fans for leaving the Emirates, much out of frustration at losing such a talented midfielder.
In moving to Italy he secured himself a more lucrative contract, and is reportedly still Milan’s second highest paid player.
Considering he has not played a single game all season, the Italians will be happy to have him off their wage bill, and have shown no signs of re-negotiating his contract.
Flamini suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury in pre-season that effectively ruled him out of the whole campaign also preventing him from playing a part in either leg against Arsenal in the Champions League.
He returned to full training shortly after but has not been selected by Massimo Allegri, causing Flamini to complain in the media that he has not been given a chance. This falling out will likely will only have accelerated his desire to leave Milan and rubber-stamped the Italian’s decision not to renew his contract.
Could he return to Arsenal? Is it worth a gamble?
While Arsene Wenger has brought back former players in the past, Sol Campbell and Thierry Henry, we can’t see the same goodwill being extended to Flamini.
Wenger spoke of his disappointment at losing Flamini in 2008, who he saw as a key cornerstone of his rebuilding, and is unlikely to want him back.
A year ago Flamini on a free transfer would have at least presented a proven quantity, but after his knee injury- he is still to play a game since- there would be an element of risk involved. With midfielders Diaby and Frimpong already nursing long-term injuries, surely the last thing Arsenal need is another?
Arsenal’s midfield is well-stocked already, and they are pursuing Rennes midfielder Yann M’Vila, but the difference in cost would be £20 million.
Flamini has been linked with French side Marseille, and if he can stay fit he will be a bargain. That is also something for Wenger to consider, that at 28 he is approaching his prime, and can bring experience of winning the Scudetto to his next club.
As we say, it may seem unlikely, but in this season of surprise comebacks, can you truly rule any thing out?
Could such a deal happen?
Would you take Flamini back on a free?
image: © Ronnie Macdonald
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