Arsenal goalkeeper, David Raya has conveyed a heartfelt farewell message to Karl Hein following the confirmation of his transfer from Arsenal to Werder Bremen.
The Estonia international spent the 2025/26 season on loan at the Bundesliga club and will now join them on a permanent basis, as announced on Saturday.
Hein shared an emotional message on Instagram, to which Raya, with whom he likely collaborated closely, responded.
The Spaniard remarked: “All the best Karlitos, wish you nothing but the best, pleasure to have shared dressing room with you.”
Having nearly spent a decade in north London, Hein provided an extensive reflection on his time at the club and the significant role it played in his development.
The caption of his post said, “Where do I begin…eight beautiful years with this amazing club has come to an end.
“It was a genuine privilege to be part of a club like @arsenal for such an extended period. It feels surreal to look back and realize that I was afforded the opportunity to transition from the academy to the first team, and I will always be grateful to this remarkable football club.
“This club has facilitated my growth from a 16-year-old boy into a goalkeeper and individual capable of realizing his aspirations. Who would have imagined that I would find a REAL FAMILY in London whom I cherish?
“I’ve created countless irreplaceable memories, friendships, and connections that will remain with me eternally.
“Congratulations to everyone associated with this exceptional club for securing the Premier League title this year, and may there be many more to follow! Once a Gooner, always a Gooner.”
Bremen disclosed in their announcement that Hein, who has been sidelined for the past few months due to injury, will be joining as their new No.1, with Mio Backhaus, who was ahead of him in the hierarchy last season, set to transfer to Freiburg.
Arsenal statement said, “Karl Hein will finalize a permanent move to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in July 2026.
“The 24-year-old player joined our team in June 2018 from his local club, Nomme United. Karl signed his initial professional contract with us the subsequent year after his arrival, and he made his first-team debut in November 2022 during a match against Brighton & Hove Albion in the third round of the Carabao Cup at Emirates Stadium.
“Karl, who is an international player for Estonia with 45 senior caps for his nation, has been on loan during the 2025/26 season with his new team in Germany, where he has made two appearances in the Bundesliga.
“The 6ft 4in goalkeeper had also previously been on loan in the Championship with Reading in the 2021/22 season, as well as with Real Valladolid, where he made a total of 32 appearances across all competitions last season.
“We express our gratitude to Karl for his contributions to the club throughout his tenure with us and wish him the very best in his future endeavors with Werder Bremen. The agreement is contingent upon the completion of regulatory procedures.”
