After Paris Saint-Germain was removed from the list, I led England to victory!
Chapter 256 Farewell and Legacy
With Arsenal advancing proudly to the Champions League semi-finals, their next opponent has been revealed: the youthful and dynamic Ajax.
The other matchup is an all-English Premier League clash.
Liverpool vs. Tottenham.
The clamor surrounding European competitions has yet to subside, but the end of the Premier League season is already fast approaching.
There are only 5 rounds left in this season's league.
However, today at the Kearney training base is not just a simple training day.
Today is a farewell, but also a passing on of the torch.
The training session has ended.
Instead of dispersing quickly as usual, the players walked in twos and threes toward the spacious and cozy players' lounge in the main building.
Here, a carefully prepared farewell ceremony awaits an important partner on their journey.
Aaron Ramsey.
Due to contractual issues, Ramsey is prepared to leave Arsenal during this winter transfer window.
His next destination is Juventus.
The lounge was decorated in a very cozy style.
Several enlarged photos hang on the wall: there's Ramsey's youthful smile when he first joined Arsenal, his running figure after recovering from a serious injury, and a moment frozen in time.
He celebrated wildly after scoring the winning goal in both the 2014 and 2017 FA Cup finals.
A long table was covered with a red and white tablecloth, on which were placed delicate snacks and drinks.
The most eye-catching feature is the huge cake in the center, with Arsenal's crest meticulously outlined in icing and the prominent number "8" next to it.
And the phrase "Aaron Ramsey - Once a Gunner, Always a Gunner".
Next to him was a thick, hardcover commemorative album with Ramsey's photo on the cover, containing handwritten blessings from each of his teammates and staff.
Ramsey sat on the sofa near the photo wall.
His wife and children were also present today.
He greeted each teammate who came forward with a gentle smile, but his blue eyes held an indescribable mix of emotions.
A deep longing for the past, reluctance to part with comrades-in-arms, and anticipation and trepidation for the unknown journey in Serie A are intertwined.
Aubameyang sat next to him, put his arm around his shoulder, and whispered something, which made Ramsey laugh.
Saka, Odegaard, and other young players gathered around the cake, looking at it with curiosity and respect.
The door was pushed open, and Professor Wenger led Yan Yuan in.
Wenger did not wear his training kit today.
Instead, he was dressed in a sharp dark suit, his silver hair neatly combed, clearly a formal outfit.
His arrival instantly silenced the lounge.
All eyes were on him.
Wenger walked to the center of the room, his gaze slowly sweeping over every face present, finally settling on Ramsey, where it lingered for a long time.
He cleared his throat and said.
"Aaron, we've gathered here today not for training, nor for tactical planning for the next game. Today, we're here for you, to express our deepest respect and gratitude, and to say goodbye."
He paused, his gaze seemingly traversing through time.
"I still vividly remember the young man from Cardiff, Wiltshire, when he first walked through the gates of Kearney."
He was young and a little nervous, but his eyes were filled with a yearning for the future and a pure love for football. Back then, who would have thought that this young man would leave such a deep mark on Arsenal's history?
Wenger's voice gradually filled with emotion.
"Your journey has not been without its challenges. We all remember that terrible injury that nearly destroyed a talented person's career."
But Aaron, you showed me, and everyone else, what true courage and resilience are.
You were not defeated; you rose again with unimaginable perseverance and became stronger. Your return is a victory in itself, a symbol of spirit.
Wenger walked to the wall and pointed to the two classic photos of the FA Cup final.
"In 2014 against Hull City, in the 109th minute of extra time; in 2017 against Chelsea, in the 79th minute."
Two golden goals, two weighty FA Cup trophies! Aaron, you have never been absent when the team needs a hero to step up the most.
With your own two feet, you wrote a glorious chapter for the Gunners. That sprint, that roar, will forever be etched in our memories and forever engraved on Arsenal's historical monument.
Wenger's gaze returned to Ramsey's face, filled with genuine admiration.
"But your value goes far beyond those crucial goals. Your coverage in midfield, your tireless running, your vision connecting the front and back lines, and your willingness to step up in critical moments..."
You represent a spirit, a never-give-up, always-giving Arsenal spirit. Aaron, you are not only a great player, but also a true Arsenal man. Your loyalty and love for this club set an example for all of us.
Wenger took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down:
"Although we are extremely reluctant to part with you, I, and all of us, sincerely wish you all the best."
Wishing you all the best in Italy, may you continue to shine and write your own new chapter.
Arsenal will always be your home, and the doors will always be open for you. Thank you, Aaron, thank you for everything you've done for Arsenal!
Wenger stepped forward, opened his arms, and gave Ramsey a deep, powerful hug.
The entire lounge was completely silent, except for the echoes of Wenger's deep and emotional voice.
Many players had tears in their eyes, especially the veterans who had fought alongside Ramsey for many years.
Xhaka pursed his lips tightly, while Monreal lowered his head.
Ramsey trembled slightly in Wenger's embrace, and as he tried to tilt his head back, he too choked up.
"Professor...I..."
When Wenger released him, the entire stadium erupted in a long and incredibly enthusiastic round of applause, filled with respect, gratitude, and reluctance to part.
Aubameyang even led the chanting of "Ramsey! Ramsey!", his voice choked with emotion.
As the applause subsided, Aubameyang stood up.
This sharp striker put away his usual playful demeanor and became solemn.
"Aaron," he began, his voice a little hoarse.
"My man, what can I say? From the first day I joined here last season, you made me feel at home. I remember one game where I was in terrible form, missed several shots in a row, and was so frustrated after the game that I wanted to smash things."
It was you. You came over, didn't say anything, just patted me on the back, and then spent an extra half hour practicing passing with me. That kind of support is more effective than any words.
Aubameyang's eyes gleamed.
"Thank you for every run and stretch on the field, thank you for all the assists you gave me, and thank you even more for taking care of me like an older brother off the field."
You are a true leader, brother. Go to Italy and give them a good beating! Show them the might of the Welsh Lions! We'll miss you!
Aubameyang also gave Ramsey a tight hug.
Next was Xhaka's message.
"Aaron, it's my luck to partner with you in midfield. Your coverage and forward runs have made up for many of my shortcomings."
I remember that time against Tottenham, you played so hard you got cramps but still kept going back to defend, and in the end we held on to the win.
I'll always remember that spirit of giving everything for the team. Take care, brother. I wish you all the best! He also gave him a firm hug.
Then, Saka, as a representative of Arsenal's youth academy, also stood up to speak.
"Brother Aaron, I was very nervous when I first joined the first team. You were the one who kept encouraging me and told me to play boldly."
You taught me so much, not just technical skills, but also how to stay calm under pressure. You will always be my role model. I wish you all the best! Saka's words were sincere and simple.
It was Yan Yuan's turn.
He stood up, his tall figure standing out prominently in the crowd.
He didn't speak immediately, but walked up to Ramsey and looked at him with deep and sincere eyes.
The lounge fell silent again, everyone watching the man who had just been crowned "King" in the Champions League.
"Aron," Yan Yuan's voice wasn't loud, but it was clear and steady.
"To be honest, standing here in front of you, I have a lot to say, but I feel that any words would be inadequate in the face of your 11 years of dedication."
Yan Yuan took a deep breath and continued.
"When I first came to Arsenal, you were one of the first teammates I met."
You don't give me the feeling of a high-and-mighty star, but rather a trustworthy older brother.
On the training field, you are always the one who gives the most effort. You show me what professional attitude is through your actions.
Throughout the match, regardless of whether things were going well or badly, I saw your unwavering running and your willingness to step up in crucial moments. What you taught me was not just football, but also responsibility and faith.
Yan Yuan's gaze swept over the photos on the wall, especially the two FA Cup winning shots, before refocusing on Ramsey's face.
"You have poured everything into this team and this jersey. Your sweat, your tears, and your glory have all become part of Arsenal's blood."
You are a true legend, Aaron. It has been an honor to fight alongside you.
Yan Yuan stepped forward, opened his arms, and gave Ramsey a very tight and respectful hug, whispering in his ear in a deep and sincere voice.
"Thank you, Aaron, thank you for everything you've done for the team. You set an example, and watching you fight and sharing in the joy of victory has been a valuable asset to my career."
Wherever you go, you will always be a Gunner legend in our hearts. Best wishes, brother, may you continue to shine in Italy and have all the best!
The hug lasted for several seconds, filled with a deep affection between men that needed no words.
The teammates around him watched this scene with eyes full of emotion.
They saw Yan Yuan's heartfelt respect for the veteran generals, and also his sense of responsibility as he was about to shoulder heavy duties.
Ramsey was deeply moved by Yan Yuan's words and embrace. He hugged Yan Yuan back tightly, his voice choked with emotion.
"Thank you, Yan. You are an incredible player, and I believe your future achievements are absolutely limitless."
Amidst the heartfelt blessings and applause of his teammates, Ramsey stood up.
He looked around at the familiar faces.
Looking into Professor Wenger's kind and encouraging eyes, and at the supportive gazes of his wife and children, he took a few deep breaths, trying to calm his surging emotions.
"Thank you everyone," he finally spoke, his voice trembling slightly but unusually clear, "Thank you, Professor, thank you all... Today has been incredibly meaningful to me." He paused, as if organizing his thoughts, memories flooding back.
"Arsenal...this is the most important stop in my career." His gaze drifted into the distance.
"Here I am, growing from an ignorant boy into a man and a father."
Every patch of grass at Colney, every inch of the Emirates Stadium, holds my most precious memories.
I remember the nervousness of my first appearance for the first team, the pain and perseverance of rehabilitation after my broken leg, and even more so... I remember the ecstasy and tears we shed together when we lifted the FA Cup at Wembley.
Ramsey's voice choked with emotion, and tears welled in his eyes.
"We've been through highs and lows together. The locker room here, the brotherhood here, is one of the most precious treasures in my life."
Leaving here, leaving you all, leaving this red and white landscape I love so much... is the hardest decision I've ever made in my career.
He quickly wiped the corner of his eye with the back of his hand.
"But life always has new chapters, and I am full of expectations for the challenges ahead. I will embrace them with everything I have learned from Arsenal."
He looked at Wenger and his teammates again, his eyes becoming firm and warm.
"So please believe me, no matter where I am, a part of my heart will always belong to Arsenal."
I will always follow this team and always cheer for the Gunners! I believe that under the manager's leadership, and with the hard work of you talented and spirited players, Arsenal will definitely return to the top and win the glory that belongs to you!
He straightened his back and his voice suddenly rose.
"Once a Gunner, Always a Gunner! Thank you! I love you all!"
Ramsey raised his right hand high and clenched his fist.
"Once a Gunner! Always a Gunner!"
All the players, including Wenger, joined him in shouting in unison, their voices reverberating throughout the locker room, filled with reluctance, blessings, and an eternal connection.
The somber atmosphere had not completely dissipated when Professor Wenger walked to the center of the room again.
His expression became even more solemn.
He looked around at everyone and slowly began to speak.
"Aaron's departure marks the end of an era, but the story of Arsenal will never end."
The team needs a new leader to guide us forward, both on and off the field, and to carry on the spirit we are so proud of.
He paused for a moment, then his gaze finally settled steadily on Yan Yuan.
"After careful consideration by the coaching staff and thorough communication with the key players,"
Wenger paused for a moment as he spoke.
"Today, I hereby officially announce that the new first captain of Arsenal Football Club is..."
His gaze locked onto his beloved disciple: "Yan Yuan!"
After a brief silence, the lounge erupted in enthusiastic applause, cheers, and whistles!
"I knew it would be you, Yan!!!!"
"Our King!!!"
"yeeeeeessss!!!"......
All eyes immediately focused on Yan Yuan.
Aubameyang was the first to jump up, rush over and give Yan Yuan a bear hug, patting him hard on the back.
"I knew it! Brother! You deserve it!"
Saka, Odegaard, Rodri, Achraf, and other young players excitedly gathered around, their faces beaming with genuine joy and trust.
Big Martin clapped enthusiastically beside him, a pleased smile on his face.
Wenger raised his hand to signal everyone to be quiet, and continued:
"Yan, everyone has seen your performance since you joined the team."
Your talent is undeniable, but more importantly, it's the sense of responsibility, strategic vision, and leadership you demonstrate on the court, the courage you show when you step up in crucial moments, and your commitment to the team and care for your teammates off the court.
You have earned everyone's respect and trust through your actions; you represent Arsenal's future and hope.
Wenger turned to Martin and said.
"At the same time, our second captain will be Emiliano Martinez."
Emmy, your consistent performance, your passionate shouts in front of goal, and your voice in the locker room are all equally crucial. The two of you will share the responsibility of leading the team.
Applause rang out again, this time for the newly appointed captain and vice-captain.
Although Yan Yuan's performance had already won over everyone, the weighty responsibility that now rested on his shoulders still made him feel an unprecedented sense of solemnity.
Yan Yuan did not immediately immerse himself in the congratulations, but instead walked through the crowd again to stand in front of Ramsey.
He extended his hand, not as a polite handshake, but to give Ramsey another firm hug, and said sincerely and solemnly in his ear.
"Aaron, thank you, thank you for everything you've done for the team, thank you for setting an example for us."
It is an honor and a tremendous challenge for me to take over your responsibilities and this captain's armband. I will do my utmost to live up to your expectations and to live up to Arsenal's legacy.
Then, he turned around to face all his teammates. His eyes were clear and firm as they swept over every familiar face.
"Thank you, Professor, and thank you all for your trust." His voice reached everyone's ears.
"The captain's armband is the highest honor for me, but it is also a heavy responsibility. I know we have lost a great player, a true leader, Aaron."
He looked at Ramsey, nodded, and then continued.
"But Arsenal's spirit will not change! Their hunger for victory will not change! Their pursuit of glory will not change!"
I will fully inherit Aaron's captain's spirit!
I promise that I will stand with everyone, fighting with all my might until the very last moment for every victory, for the Premier League points, for the Champions League glory, and for Arsenal's dignity and future!
He raised his clenched right fist, his voice suddenly rising in pitch and becoming incredibly infectious.
"Let's move forward together! For Arsenal!"
"For Arsenal!" All the players, including Ramsey, shouted in unison, their voices filled with trust in their new captain and fighting spirit for the future.
The atmosphere became warm and full of energy once again.
Everyone gathered around the cake, and Wenger cut the first slice and handed it to Ramsey.
Teammates rushed forward to take photos, and laughter and conversation filled the lounge once again.
Yan Yuan and Ramsey stood together, talking in hushed tones, both with smiles on their faces.
Ramsey patted Yan Yuan's arm, his eyes full of encouragement and expectation.
Professor Wenger stood a little further away.
Looking at the group of players he had nurtured or brought in, he finally looked at Yan Yuan with satisfaction.
Farewells are always bittersweet, but the world of football always moves forward. Veteran players leave with glory, and new leaders take on the responsibilities.
Arsenal's legacy,
Now it's number 7's turn.
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