David Raya has posted a touching farewell message to Karl Hein, who has completed his permanent transfer from Arsenal to Werder Bremen. As officially announced on Saturday, the Estonian international will spend the 2025-26 season on loan at the Bundesliga club before completing his full-time transfer.
Hayne shared his own emotional eulogy on Instagram, and Raya, who likely worked closely with him, also responded warmly. “Rest in peace, Carlitos. I am happy to share the dressing room with you,” the Spaniard wrote.
Hayne, who spent the better part of a decade in north London, has sincerely reflected on his time at the club and the role Arsenal played in shaping him as a player and person. His post read: “Where do I start… 8 beautiful years at this great club have come to an end.
“It was a real privilege to be at a club like Arsenal for so long. Looking back, it’s incredible to think that I was given the opportunity to find my way from the academy to the first team. I will be forever grateful to this amazing football club.”
“Thanks to this club, I have been able to grow from a 16-year-old kid to a goalkeeper and a person who can achieve my dreams. Who would have thought that I would find a loving, real family in London?”
“I have made so many irreplaceable memories, friends and connections that will last forever.” Where to start… Eight beautiful years at this great club have come to an end.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in this special club on winning the Premier League title this year and we hope we win many more! Once a Gooner, always a Gooner.”
In a statement, Bremen revealed that Hein, who has been sidelined in recent months due to injury, will join as their new number one, while Mio Backhaus, who was above him in the pecking order last season, is set to join Freiburg.
A statement from Arsenal said: “Karl Hein will complete his permanent transfer to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in July 2026.”
“The 24-year-old joined us from his hometown club Nome United in June 2018. Karl signed his first professional contract with us the year after joining and made his first-team debut in November 2022 in the Carabao Cup third round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium.”
“Karl, who made 45 international appearances for Estonia, spent the 2025/26 season on loan with his new team Germany, making two appearances in the Bundesliga.”
“The 6ft 4in goalkeeper was on loan in the Championship with Reading during the 2021/22 season, as well as playing for Real Valladolid last season, where he made 32 appearances in all competitions.”
“We would like to thank Karl for his contribution to the club during his time with us and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter at Werder Bremen. This agreement is subject to the completion of regulatory procedures.”
