Tella is set to face his boyhood club as Bayer Leverkusen takes on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening, August 7.
He was included in Arsenal’s scholarship intake for the 2015-2016 season, alongside Tolaji Bola, Edward Nketiah, and Joseph Willock.
Tella has expressed that supporting Arsenal was a part of his upbringing. He fondly remembers watching their games during his younger years, idolizing several players who have donned the Gunners’ red and white.
Tella said: “Wednesday’s game feels like a homecoming for me. I’m still an Arsenal fan and I always look out for Arsenal’s results. The club means a lot to me.
“I had a few experiences here when I was at Southampton playing against Arsenal, but having an opportunity to come back here again is a really big thing for me.
“It’s a real full circle moment. I grew up here, and I used to watch all the games, dreaming that one day I’ll be able to play here.
“It didn’t work out for me at Arsenal, which hurt at the time, but every cloud has a silver lining and I’m so grateful for what Arsenal gave me as a kid.”
As Bayer Leverkusen prepares for their friendly against Arsenal, Tella’s admission of being an Arsenal fan not only brings a personal touch to the narrative but also sets the stage for an exciting encounter.
He also helped Bayer Leverkusen win the domestic double in his first season in Germany and also featured in the Europa League final.
