Norwegian international Elyounoussi, who made 33 Premier League appearances as his side were relegated this season, played 90 times for Saints between 2018-2023. Theo Walcott had already confirmed his contract expiry while Elyounoussi has now revealed to media in his native country that he will also depart the South Coast.
Elyounoussi said “I’m done. We’ve agreed on that. The contract expires at the end of June, and then I’m a Bosman player (out of contract). We looked at the whole situation. It’s been a troubled season. Many replacements. I’m glad we waited and looked at the situation first. Then maybe it was just as well to stand again as a Bosman player in the end. It was surprisingly emotional. Maybe not right away, but afterwards in the locker room. I made a little speech. There’s something about being there for so long, sharing that dressing room with so many players, staff and people who have worked there for so long. I became sensitive, that is. I didn’t think so. Life goes on, I’ve changed clubs before, but it was special. I got an award as the player who has contributed the most off the pitch in the community at Southampton, visiting schools, going to volunteers and stuff like that. I appreciated that. It almost means more than what happens on the field. I was grateful for that,”
Elyounoussi was given an opportunity to say goodbye to supporters when he was substituted during the 4-4 draw with Liverpool on the final day of the season. After Roberto Firmino, who was confirmed as leaving the Reds, was awarded an ovation by both sets of fans, Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson tried to usher Elyounoussi off the pitch during his.
Elyounoussi said “He came over and apologised. He said he didn’t know what the occasion was, We clapped for Roberto Firmino when he stepped down in what was also his last Liverpool game. Henderson didn’t know it applied to me too, so he apologised afterwards.”
The 28 year old Moi Elyounoussi had been in discussions about a new deal over the course of the year but the two parties will break completely.
