Bacary Sagna expresses his frustration at Arsenal's transfer policy

Arsenal and France Right-Back Bacary Sagna, in an interview with L’Equipe, spoke about his frustration at Arsenal’s transfer policy, following the high-profile departures in the summer of Robin Van Persie and Alex Song. Sagna did not feature for the French national team at the Euro 2012 and is yet to make an appearance for the Gunners this season, owing to a leg injury.

Excerpts from the interview:

Everyone knew Robin was leaving. But Alex? He’s 24. He had three years on contract. I still don’t understand. He’s a huge loss.

When the two best players go, you ask questions. Fans come up to me in the street, I understand the frustration. Like them I don’t understand everything.

Speaking about last summer’s departures, Nasri and Clichy, both of whom lifted the Premier League title with Manchester City, he said:

I’m the only starting player left from 2007. In May, I watched City’s parade on TV. I saw Samir & Gael lift the trophy. I want that.

Asked if both Nasri and Clichy were right to leave, Sagna continued:

Yes, but we didn’t know then.

When asked about his own contract situation, Sagna told the reporters that his current contract expires at the end of 2013-14 season. He also revealed that nobody from Arsenal has talked about extending his contract, yet. Though that is hardly surprising, considering his run of injuries for the past year. It is only sensible on the part of Arsenal to wait for his return and let Wenger judge his form. At 29, one may argue his best years are behind him.

This interview comes at a time when Arsenal’s fans were in high spirits after a near-flawless performance at Anfield last weekend. Supporters of the North London outfit are by now used to their best players leaving the club in search of either money or trophies. But instances of current players expressing their frustrations are rare.

Sagna is expected to return to action for the Gunners around the same time as Jack Wilshere, in early October.