Alex Runarsson has claimed that leaving Arsenal on loan for OH Leuven was a decision made for the betterment of his career.
Speaking to the Belgian club’s official website, the Icelandic international said that the choice to move to Leuven was his decision.
Runarsson became Arsenal’s fourth-choice keeper following the arrival of Aaron Ramsdale and the promotion of Arthur Okonkwo to the first team.
Indeed, the Gunners had been eager to offload Runarsson for the majority of the summer window. A move to Turkey was on the table, but a deal collapsed. However, the 26-year-old was able to land a move to Belgian Pro League side Leuven.
Moreover, Runarsson was one of three Arsenal players to depart the club on deadline day. Reiss Nelson and Hector Bellerin both left on loan to Feyenoord and Real Betis respectively. The Gunners also managed to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu from Bologna.
Runarsson struggled in his first year with Arsenal. However, when asked why he wanted to leave the club, the former Dijon star said he made the decision based on where his career is currently at.
Runarsson said on his move to Leuven: “I try to talk as little as possible about football with my father. He has his career, I have mine. The choice for OH Leuven is also 100% my choice. I am convinced that it is the right choice for my career at the moment.”
With the keeper struggling at Arsenal, a fresh change of scenery will be for the best for Runarsson this season.
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