Former Gunner seals permanent move 1 year after Arsenal release | OneFootball

Cédric Soares has brought an end to an uncertain period in his career, signing a permanent deal with São Paulo after spending seven months without a club following his release from Arsenal.

The 34-year-old left north London in June 2024 and went half a season without a club before accepting a short-term contract with São Paulo in January this year.

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Initially brought in on a three-month trial, Cédric impressed enough to secure a deal that now runs until 2027.

Reflecting on the challenge, he said: “I knew well what an opportunity it was to come to this club. Of course, because I was without a club for a few months, I had to show service. They wanted to see how I was physically.

“But, despite everything, it turned out to be something easy. There was my interest and the interest of the club, and as it only depended on me, training daily, I knew that there would be this possibility to stay here for a longer time.”

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Cédric admitted the Brazilian calendar demanded his quick adaptation, with long journeys, heat and a packed fixture list all part of the routine. “I have always been a person who sought to adapt my characteristics to the game and to Brazilian football in this case.

“There are those needs that sometimes you play in very high temperatures, longer journeys, but as I was taught in training, it’s the same for both of you. Starting from this principle, we always have to give the best on the field to win games,” he explained.

His early months brought derby wins and Libertadores progress, moments he has enjoyed. “Derbies are always special. When we beat Corinthians it was a unique feeling, it was a very good derby, with a full stadium and support from the fans, and we won at home. It has been a unique experience, the Brazilian people live football in a very intense way and this brings very good and positive sensations, when we win mainly.”

Carabao Cup Arsenal v AFC Wimbledon Alexandre Lacazette 9 of Arsenal celebrates his goal with , Cedric Soares to make it 1-0 London Emirates Stadiu…

Cédric spent four and a half years at Arsenal after joining from Southampton in January 2020, making 64 appearances and scoring twice (with five assists).

He netted on his debut against Norwich, provided cover across both full-back roles but slipped out of the first-team picture and finished his time at Arsenal with a loan to Fulham in 2023.