Leeds United: Pascal Struijk sends message as Illan Meslier to Arsenal confirmed
Pascal Struijk has shared his reaction after former Leeds United teammate Illan Meslier's move to Arsenal was confirmed.
The Frenchman left Elland Road when his contract expired on 30 June, and he did not have to wait long for a new club.
The Dutchman also departed LS11, but in a £20million deal, joining Premier League rivals Brighton.
The pair were key figures of the Marcelo Bielsa era at Leeds, and have played 140 times together for the Elland Road outfit.
The duo won the Championship title twice, once under El Loco in the 2019-20 season and with Daniel Farke in the 2024-25 campaign.
As a result of that, they have a close bond, and that was evident as Struijk shared a message to the new Gunners man.
What was Pascal Struijk's message to Illan Meslier?
Meslier was announced as a new signing for Mikel Arteta's side on Thursday.
He will act as a back-up again, with David Raya considered as one of the best goalkeepers in the division.
His former Thorp Arch teammate sent a message to the 26-year-old via his personal Instagram story.
Taking to social media and sharing the announcement, he said "Allez mon gar, new challenge" with three fire emojis.
The first part translates as let's go buddy, highlighting the close relationship that the players have.
Will Leeds miss the pair after they left Elland Road?
Leeds will likely miss Struijk more than the goalkeeper, as he was far more important, especially last season.
Meslier often had a clanger in him, and that was ultimately what saw him dropped from the first-team.
He did not make a single appearance as the Whites returned to the top-flight with a bang last season, which saw him reputation take a hit.
They do not need to sign a replacement for the former Lorient star, as he was third-choice behind Karl Darlow, who needs a new contract, and Lucas Perri, whilst Alex Cairns can take up his berth.
Meanwhile, Struijk played 34 times in the league last season, so his departure could be a thorn in Farke's side, if he isn't replaced adequately.
Only time will tell whether they miss the former Ajax man, or they can find someone better in the market to take his place in the side.