Released Arsenal player signs for club in Costa Rica | OneFootball

Released Arsenal academy player Elian Quesada-Thorn has joined Alajuelense in Costa Rica, following his departure from north London this summer.

Photo via Alajuelense on Twitter

Back in April, reports revealed that Elian Quesada-Thorn would be leaving Arsenal after a decade with the club. Arsenal then confirmed that Quesada-Thorn would be released at the end of June, making him a free agent.

“Thank you Arsenal,” Quesada-Thorn wrote after the news of his departure was made public. “After 10 years, it’s time for a new chapter. Grateful for all the memories made and good luck to everyone at the club. With love, EQT.”

We now know the 20-year-old’s next step, with Costa Rican club Alajuelense confirming that they’re signing him on a two-year deal.

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Quesada-Thorn’s move to Costa Rica makes sense, as he plays his international football for the country. The youngster has made u20 appearances in the past, and he even received a senior call-up in September 2023.

Though the Arsenal academy graduate didn’t make his senior debut, he did spend time training with the Costa Rica first team. With any luck, playing in the country will help him to break into their team more regularly.

As well as Costa Rica, Quesada-Thorn is reportedly eligible for both Sweden and Ireland. So if things go well, he’ll have options.

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Quesada-Thorn played as a left-back for Arsenal, making 11 appearances in the 2024/25 campaign.

The player’s struggles with a back injury significantly limited his involvement with the team, but he was back fit by the end of the season, allowing him to make this move to a new club.