Former Gunner moves to Slovakian first tier

Former Arsenal academy midfielder has signed for Slovakian first-tier side Zemplin Michalovce, turning down offers from the English lower leagues before making the move.

After 13 years with Arsenal, Ben Cottrell moved to Slovenian side NS Mura on a permanent deal in 2023. But the player only signed a one-year contract, and it came to an end this summer.

The 23-year-old has been on the hunt for a new club since then, spending time training with National League side Hemel Hempstead in the meantime.

Now Slovakian side Zemplin Michalovce have announced his signing, confirming he’s signed a deal lasting until the summer of 2027.

“My agent came up with the possibility of going to Michalovce,” Cottrell revealed. “So I said I would give it a try. I would like to move forward in my career and I want to play in the Prva Liga.

“I also had offers from lower English competitions, but I decided to go for Michalovce.

“I have the opportunity to try out a new competition, as well as life in another country. I have already seen the team play in some matches and I like their performance. I believe that I will help Zemplin to good results.”

Cottrell made 12 appearances for Mura in Slovenia in a disrupted campaign in 2023/24, but he’ll hope to make himself a regular in Michalovce now in Slovakia.

The English youngster is the first ever English player to play for Zemplin, who conclude their 2024 fixtures on Saturday, December 14th.

If Cottrell isn’t available for that fixture, his first chance to make a debut will come in February, when Slovakian football returns.