It was the summer of 2006 when Rosicky signed for Arsenal and he’s been there ever since. He was bought for a reported £7 million from Borussia Dortmund. With the quality that accompanied Rosicky to Arsenal, it was considered another piece of shrewd business by Arsene Wenger. While all the big names likes Henry, Fabregas, Van Persie left, there was one warrior who chose to stay loyal to the canon he wore on his crest.
Already a household name in Europe, Tomas Rosicky was known for his energy, intelligence and eye for the game when he joined Arsenal. He had won the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund, where he played six seasons, also reaching the UEFA Cup final in one. Previously, he was a star player for his hometown club Sparta Prague, where he won back to back league title in 1999 and 2000.
At Arsenal, he established himself as one of the most technically gifted midfielders in Europe.
He is no less than a hero in his native Czech Republic. He’s won the Czech footballer of the year in 2001, 2002 and 2006. He made his international debut in 2000 and captains the national team. He is the third most capped Czech player behind Petr Cech and Karel Poborsky and made his 100th appearance for the country against Iceland in Euro qualifying tournament in June, 2015.
Rosicky wears No. 7 for Arsenal and has made more than 200 appearances for the club. He has established himself as a fan favourite at the club with his numerous match winning performances and the loyalty to the club. The magic he weaved with his feet earned him the title of Little Mozart. Watching him play at times is like listening to a beautiful symphony, it creates the same effect.
It’s been a shame though for a player like him, his career has been plagued with injuries. When he retires from football his career would be remembered more as missed opportunities.
Had it not been for injuries he could have become one of the greatest midfielders of the generation as many thought he would in his initial years. Due to his injuries he could play just one match this season in February where he was again forced off the pitch with a thigh strain. Though the reception he got when he entered the field from Arsenal fans was overwhelming, which he later said brought tears to his eyes.
Rosicky has gained match fitness now and will feature in tomorrow’s final league game against already relegated Aston Villa. This will probably be his last appearance in the Arsenal colors as the manager has indicated he won’t be awarded a contract extension. It’s not surprising why Arsene Wenger wouldn’t want to offer a contract to an injury prone 35 year old midfielder.
It is really heartbreaking for the Arsenal followers to see him go after nearly 10 years at the club.
There have been few reports that he will hang his boots after the Euros but his agent said a couple of days back there have been several offers from clubs all over.
Rosicky is that kind of a player that not just Arsenal fans but fans of every team in the Premier league would be hoping he signs for another Premier league club so they can still witness him creating magic from the midfield. Wherever he goes Sportscrunch wishes him best of luck.