Alexei Rojas Leaves Arsenal to Join Penafiel After Eight-Year Spell
View Instagram Post
Alexei Rojas has finalized his move to Penafiel after rejecting Arsenal’s offer of a new contract, marking the end of his eight-year tenure in north London.
Advertisement
The 20-year-old goalkeeper will compete for a spot alongside Miguel Oliveira and Joan Femenias in Penafiel’s goalkeeping lineup for the upcoming season. His transfer comes in lieu of Manuel Balde‘s departure to Trofense on a free transfer.
In June, the Premier League club confirmed that Rojas had turned down their offer of a new contract before his agreement expired, ultimately deciding to leave as a free agent.
Photo via Rojas on Instagram
Rojas expressed his gratitude on Instagram, stating, “I am incredibly pleased to have spent 8 years at Arsenal Football Club.”
Advertisement
He continued, “Progressing through from the academy to the first team. Every step of the journey has taught me about what it takes to perform as an elite athlete, on and off the pitch.
“It has been a true privilege to work with so many elite people across the years. I extend my gratitude to all of the coaching staff, performance & medical teams, chefs, ground staff, security team, and everybody involved with Arsenal.
“This club has helped shape me as a player, and as a person. I will always be grateful for the opportunities, lessons, and memories that I’ve gained here.
“And to the Arsenal fans, thank you for your unwavering support, passion, and love for the club. Wearing this badge has been a privilege, and hearing your encouragement every step of the way is something I’ll never forget.
Advertisement
“I have decided to take the best step for my career and begin a new stage in my professional journey, with new challenges ahead of me. Great things are achieved by taking bold risks. This club will forever be in my heart.
“Once a Gunner, always a Gunner. Thank you, Arsenal ❤️”
Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
During the 2025/26 season, Rojas primarily trained with Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad, making as many senior appearances as he did with the under-21s. He was on the bench for the Champions League match against Slavia Praha and played for the under-21s in an EFL Trophy match against Cardiff City.
Advertisement
His limited participation in the academy was partly due to his commitment to the Under-20 World Cup with Colombia in October. However, Arsenal prioritized his involvement in first-team training over academy matches.
Throughout his time at Arsenal, Rojas made 21 appearances across the under-18, under-19, and under-21 levels before embarking on the next chapter of his career in Portugal.
Penafiel competes in Liga Portugal 2.
Photo via Arsenal.com