Everton midfielder Theo Walcott admitted he fell out of love with football while he was at Arsenal.
Walcott left Arsenal for Everton in the January transfer window after 12 years, where he scored 108 goals in 397 appearances. However, the 29-year-old felt that towards the end of his time at the Emirates, he was coming in and out of the side too often, and says his move to Everton has given him back the excitement for football. Walcott is now playing under Marco Silva at Goodison Park, and says the Portuguese boss’ training sessions are intense, which suits him.
Speaking to Sky Sports’ Alex Scott, Walcott revealed details about leaving Arsenal and new beginnings at Everton.
“I’m not going to lie, I fell out of love with football for a little bit. Because I had some good performances, but then just didn’t get the chance to play on. Scoring over 100 goals for Arsenal is a great achievement for me personally, and then just the last year-and-a-half was tough, I can’t lie. It was really tough, not being able to get into the team, being in and out.”
“I just felt I wanted to get the excitement of football again. I didn’t feel like it was going to be at Arsenal then.
Sam at the time got in contact, and I felt “yeah, this is the right move for me”. I got the buzz and enjoyment back, and I couldn’t be in a happier place to be honest, I’m playing football with a smile on my face. I just love football again.”
“[Leaving] was tough, it really was, I can’t lie. When you’re used to something for so long it’s a difficult decision, but I felt like it was the right one for me.”