Decoding the stats of Fulham's record signing Emile Smith Rowe
Premier League club Fulham have signed Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. The Cottagers paid an initial £27m for Smith Rowe, and add-ons could take the total valuation to £34m which is a club record deal. As per Fabrizio Romano, there is sell-on clause also included. Smith Rowe was keen to play regular first-team football and will get an opportunity to showcase his prowess.
Why does this story matter?
Smith Rowe was in the USA for Arsenal's pre-season tour and he returned to London on Tuesday to complete his medical. Despite being admired by Mikel Arteta, Smith Rowe was keen to feature more and hence wanted a move away. Fulham's concrete interest helped the player make a decision. Arteta praised the Englishman for his attitude and commitment but understood his desire to play.
Smith Rowe lost his place in the Arsenal team
After a bright start in the first team and making an influence in 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively, Smith Rowe suffered a groin injury in September 2022 and was sidelined for several months after undergoing surgery. After returning to fitness, in January 2023, he was largely overlooked. In 2023-24, his game time reduced drastically. He was also ruled out for six weeks in October.
Smith Rowe's career stats in 2018-19 and 2019-20
Smith Rowe made his Arsenal first-team debut in 2018-19. He played six matches and scored three goals. He was also loaned to RB Leipzig and he made three appearances. In 2019-20, he made six appearances for Arsenal and was loaned to Huddersfield Town for whom he netted two goals and made two assists in 19 appearances in the Championship.
A crucial figure for Arsenal in 2020-21 and 2021-22: Numbers
In the 2020-21 season, Smith Rowe made 33 appearances for the Gunners, scoring four goals. He also made seven assists. In 2021-22, Smith Rowe clocked 37 appearances and netted 11 times, including 10 goals in the Premier League (2 assists). In 2022-23, Smith Rowe made 14 appearances (A2) and in 2023-24, he played 19 matches, making one assist.
His overall Premier League stats for Arsenal
Smith Rowe featured in 80 Premier League matches for Arsenal. He scored 12 goals and made nine assists. Out of his 72 shots, 37 were on target. He smashed the woodwork twice and created nine big chances. Smith Rowe made 34 tackles, 29 interceptions and 23 clearances. He won 142 duels and had 49 successful 50/50s.
Two FA Community Shield wins and 115 appearances for Arsenal
Smith Rowe won two trophies with Arsenal. He won the FA Community Shield in 2020 and 2023. Overall, the England player featured in 115 matches for Arsenal, scoring 18 times.
