As per a report from Sky Sports News, Premier League giants Arsenal are set to open disciplinary proceedings against Laurent Koscielny.
‘Very disappointed’
In something of a bombshell for all associated with the Gunners yesterday afternoon, it was announced that club captain Koscielny had informed Unai Emery and co. that he would not be joining his fellow teammates on their pre-season tour of the US.
An official announcement across Arsenal’s website and social media channels regarding the situation read as follows:
‘Laurent Koscielny has refused to travel to the US for our pre-season tour.’
‘We are very disappointed by Laurent’s actions, which are against our clear instructions.’
‘We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time.’
Ligue 1 interest
The reliable David Ornstein of BBC Sport subsequently provided an insight into Koscielny’s shock decision, citing Arsenal’s Europa League final defeat at the hands of Chelsea, and concern over the direction of the club as key.
As such, the Frenchman is said to be eyeing a return to France, amid interest from Ligue 1 clubs Bordeaux, Rennes and Lyon.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 10: Laurent Koscielny of Arsenal celebrates their win during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on March 10, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Significantly, however, Koscielny has also requested to have his contract at the Emirates terminated this summer, despite having a year left to run on the agreement.
Arsenal are thought to have firmly rejected such a proposition, amid the club’s widely-publicised financial struggles.
Arsenal hit back
And, as per the aforementioned report from Sky Sports News this evening, Koscielny’s actions look set to land the stopper in hot water with the Arsenal hierarchy.
The Gunners are said to be ready to open disciplinary proceedings against their club captain.
No further information regarding the potential sanctions, though, is provided:
Arsenal will open disciplinary proceedings against Laurent Koscielny after he refused to join the club on their pre-season tour, accoridng to Sky sources.
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 12, 2019
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