Mathieu Debuchy has admitted he considered leaving Arsenal after finding himself usurped in the hunt for a right back spot by Hector Bellerin.
Debuchy was signed for around £12 million at the start of last season with the intention that he would replace Bacary Sagna as Arsene Wenger’s first-choice right-back.
However injuries to the Frenchman’s ankle ligaments and a subsequent dislocated shoulder gave Bellerin the opportunity to establish himself in the Arsenal side. The Spanish youngster has not looked back since, earning his first call up to the national squad this week.
It has left Debuchy on the peripheries of the squad, making just 14 appearances last season and only one this time. And he has admitted that he is finding it difficult to adjust to not being in his manager’s first XI.
“It is difficult,” Debuchy told L’Equipe. “Even if I had not played a lot last season, in my head I would return to start after my recovery. But, at the Community Shield against Chelsea, Wenger chose him, Bellerin.
How Arsenal's players fared on international duty
“It was a surprise and a disappointment. Let's say it crossed my mind (leaving)... But I want to be at Arsenal and to take my place.”
The right-back is currently with the France squad ahead of their friendly matches with Portugal and Serbia. He is likely to battle it out with former Arsenal defender Sagna for a place in his home tournament next summer.
