Colin Kazim-Richards has announced his return to the club, this time as a youth coach.

The 37-year-old striker, who spent three of his formative years in the Arsenal academy, will join the coaching staff at Hale End, the club’s renowned youth development centre.

Kazim-Richards, who last played for Fatih Karagümrük S.K., announced his new role on social media, expressing his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. “I am delighted to announce that I have officially joined the Arsenal Academy coaching staff,” he tweeted. “It is an honour to join a club so renowned for its dedication to excellence and development.”

The former Turkish international’s journey back to Arsenal is a full-circle moment, having started his career with the Gunners’ youth setup from 1998 to 2001.

After leaving Arsenal, Kazim-Richards enjoyed a successful career spanning various clubs and leagues, including notable stints at Feyenoord, where he gained cult-hero status, and numerous other clubs across England, Europe, Brazil, and Mexico.

With a career that saw him play in the Premier League, Turkish Süper Lig, and even the Brazilian Série A, Kazim-Richards brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role. His international career with Turkey, where he earned 37 caps, further adds to his understanding of the game at the highest level.

Although his specific role within the academy is yet to be defined, Kazim-Richards’ appointment reflects Arsenal‘s commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a winning mentality within the academy ranks. His experience, both as a player and now as a coach, will undoubtedly be invaluable in shaping the next generation of Arsenal stars.