Arsenal insist they expect Robin van Persie to 'fulfil his commitments to the club' despite announcing that he will not extend his contract.
Arsenal respond to striker's decision not to extend contract
Arsenal insist they expect Robin van Persie to 'fulfil his commitments to the club' despite announcing that he will not extend his stay at Emirates Stadium.
The Holland international dropped the bombshell earlier on Wednesday when he announced on his personal website that his time with the Gunners was coming to an end.
Arsenal captain Van Persie has 12 months to run on his current contract and would be able to leave on a free transfer when that deal expires.
The 28-year-old claimed that his decision was based on concerns over the future ambitions of the North London club and their ability to challenge for major silverware.
Arsene Wenger must now decide whether to cash in on a player who has no intention of extending his Gunners career beyond next summer or allow him to walk away for nothing after one more season.
Ambition and confidence
The response from the club to Van Persie's revelation suggests that they may look to retain the services of the former Feyenoord player, who has been linked with a number of clubs, including Manchester City, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus.
A statement on the club's
official website read: "We have to respect Robin's decision not to renew his contract.
"Robin has one year to run on his current contract and we are confident that he will fulfil his commitments to the club.
"We are planning with ambition and confidence for next season with Arsenal's best interests in mind."
Wenger has had to cope with a number of key men leaving in recent years, with midfield duo Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri the most recent to head for the Emirates exit.
