Mathieu Debuchy has joined Ligue 1 side Bordeaux on loan until the end of the season. Arsenal have issued an official statement on Debuchy’s loan move to the French side on their website.
The Frenchman reportedly rejected loan offers from Premier League teams Aston Villa, Sunderland and surprisingly Manchester United this month, however Arséne Wenger blocked a move to their Premier League rivals in favour of Debuchy moving to a team outside of England.
Loan move makes sense - for all concerned
Debuchy is keen to return to the French national team in order to play for his nation in front of a home crowd for the upcoming EURO's this summer, and with the rapid rise of Hector Bellerín last season, Debuchy has had to play second fiddle to the Spaniard at Arsenal following two successive lengthly injuries.
Debuchy has only made seven appereances for the Gunners this season, and the Frenchman has been criticised by fans for his lacklustre performances this season, particularly in the Champions League.
Villa were favourites, Bordeaux complete deal
Remi Garde's Aston Villa were the favourites to sign the defender on-loan for a majority of the window, with Garde even publicly admitting he would like to bring Debuchy on loan to the Villains.
However due to Debuchy’s high wages, the reported £1.6million pound loan deal was called off.
Debuchy made his name in France during his time at Lille, where the right-back spent 10 years with Les Dogues, before moving to Newcastle United in 2013. The 30-year-old then replaced Bacary Sagna at Arsenal after the 2014 World Cup.
However since signing for Arsenal the right back has suffered multiple injuries and setbacks, such as a dislocated shoulder Debuchy suffered against Stoke City.
During his three month set-back, Bellerín made the right-back slot his own, and Calum Chambers proved to be suitable back-up for the talented young Spaniard, demoting Debuchy to third-choice right-back in a span off just a few months.