Arsenal star David Raya has shown the power of the goalkeepers’ union with a heartfelt transfer message to Karl Hein
David Raya has sent a heartfelt goodbye message to Karl Hein after his transfer from Werder Bremen to Arsenal was confirmed. The Estonia international spent the 2025/26 season on loan at the Bundesliga club and will now join them permanently, as announced on Saturday.
Hein posted an emotional message of his own to Instagram with Raya, who he likely worked closely, issuing a reply. The Spaniard said: “All the best Karlitos, wish you nothing but the best, pleasure to have shared dressing room with you.”
Having nearly spent a decade in north London, Hein issued a lengthy verdict on his time at the club and how much they have helped him grow.
The caption of his post began: “Where do I begin…eight beautiful years with this amazing club has come to an end.
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“It was a real privilege to be part of a club like @arsenal for such a long time. It is surreal to look back and think that I was given the opportunity to find a way from the academy to the first team and I will forever be thankful to this amazing football club.
“This club has helped me grow from a 16-year old kid to a goalkeeper and person who can achieve his dreams. Who would have ever thought that somehow I will find myself a REAL FAMILY in London who I love.
“I’ve made so many irreplaceable memories, friends and connections that will stay with me forever.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in this special club on achieving the Premier League title this year and hopefully many more to come! Once a Gooner, always a Gooner.”
Bremen revealed in their announcement that Hein, who has missed the last few months through injury, would be joining as their new No.1 with Mio Backhaus, who was ahead of him in the pecking order last season, set to join Freiburg.
“Karl Hein will complete a permanent move to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in July 2026, a statement from Arsenal read.
“The 24-year-old joined us in June 2018 from his hometown club, Nomme United. Karl signed his first professional contract with us the following year after he joined, and went on to make his first-team debut in November 2022, when we played Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup third round at Emirates Stadium.
“Karl, an Estonia international with 45 senior appearances for his country, has spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan with his new side in Germany, where he made two Bundesliga appearances.
“The 6ft 4in goalkeeper had also previously spent time on loan in the Championship with Reading during the 2021/22 season, as well as Real Valladolid, where he made 32 appearances in all competitions last season.
“We thank Karl for his contribution to the club during his time with us and wish him all the best for his next chapter with Werder Bremen. The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”
