Theo Walcott's loyalty to Arsenal ended today, as the former England international signed a 3.5 year deal with Everton.
Walcott admitted that, even though he still hoped to earn success at Arsenal, switching his allegiance to Everton felt like the right thing to do.
It felt like it was time for me to move on [from Arsenal]," he said."It was sad but it's exciting at the same time and I want to reignite my career and push Everton to win things as they have done before. “I want to be part of something and I feel like this place will offer me that," he told Everton's website.
Everton celebrated Walcott's arrival with the following tweet.
| Welcome to your new home… pic.twitter.com/7Okf2ItZUv
— Everton (@Everton) January 17, 2018
Walcott didn't want to end his 12-year stay at Arsenal without saying goodbye to the Gunners, and he turned to his Twitter feed to thank them with a classy message.
I would like to say a big thank you to everyone involved @Arsenal – manager, coaches, backroom staff, and all the many people at the club that have been part of my family for the past 12 years. 1/2
— Theo Walcott (@theowalcott) January 17, 2018
2/2 I would also like to thank all my team mates I have had the pleasure of playing alongside, but most importantly the fans for their incredible support. I feel sad to leave but also excited for a new challenge. I wish everyone at the club every success for the future.
— Theo Walcott (@theowalcott) January 17, 2018