Smith Rowe’s EASY Chelsea transfer decision

Robin Bairner

30 Aug 2023 11:15 BST
3 min read

Emile Smith Rowe, Arsenal, 2023/24 — © ProShots

Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe may have been promised game time by Mikel Arteta, but so far the manager has failed to deliver.

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The 23-year-old has played just three minutes of football this season, which came in the Community Shield, and was last weekend overlooked as the Gunners needed inspiration from the bench. Fabio Vieira was introduced ahead of him and was pivotal in the 2-2 draw with Fulham.

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With Smith Rowe’s prospects at Arsenal looking bleak, Chelsea have been linked with a surprise move for the England international.

As a Hale End kid, leaving the Gunners to join their arch-rivals is naturally a difficult call to make, but when examined through the prism of what’s best for his career, it’s an easy decision to make.

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© ProShots - Smith Rowe in action against Tottenham

Smith Rowe's best Premier League transfer options

According to data analytics experts SciSports, Arsenal rate only 16th among Premier League clubs in terms of his ideal fit.

In particular, there are weaknesses in terms of his development, playing time and even Arteta’s playing style.

Only Burnley, Nottingham Forest, Brighton and Luton are poorer options than Smith Rowe than his current situation.

© ProShots - Emile Smith Rowe's best options

On the contrary, Chelsea are seen as one of the more promising clubs for the young Englishman if he wants to strike a balance between development and playing time. The Blues come in fourth in this regard, scoring particularly well on the minutes they can offer the player and also the style they play in.

West Ham and Brentford are the leading two options, though Smith Rowe may not be offered as much playing time.

On the contrary, Crystal Palace could offer the player plenty of minutes but less of a development opportunity. Nevertheless, Roy Hodgson’s side might be a team to consider if a late loan offer were to be made.