SpotlightMirror FootballUnverified source· 8 Aug 2026
Bentley: I left Arsenal after six months despite five-year deal
A former Arsenal midfielder reveals he didn't trust the manager's plan and left soon after signing a long-term contract.


D. Bentley
player
Player
David Bentley
Club
Arsenal
Contract
Five-year deal
Time at club
Left after six months
What happened. David Bentley signed a five-year deal with Arsenal but left just six months later, citing a lack of trust in manager Arsene Wenger's plan.
- Bentley joined Arsenal at 13 and made his debut under Wenger.
- He went on loan to Norwich City in 2004 and requested a transfer on return.
- He moved to Blackburn in January after leaving.
“I didn't trust manager's plan”
— David Bentley
Bentley's story contrasts with current Arsenal success under Arteta, who has won the league and signed new players.
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