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‘Special qualities’: Mikel Arteta names the Arsenal newcomer who’s wowed him already

Giuseppe Labellarte

Fri 28 August 2020 12:15, UK

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has waxed lyrical about Gunners newcomer Willian, praising his attitude from the first day he arrived at the Emirates Stadium.

The 32-year-old joined Arsenal earlier this month on a three-year deal after leaving London rivals Chelsea on a free transfer at the end of the 2020-21 season.

Willian arrived at the Emirates Stadium with a glittering CV which includes a Copa America, two UEFA Cup / Europa League titles, two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup.

One trophy that the Brazilian ace is yet to win is the Champions League, and last week he of how Arteta’s plan to win the trophy over the next three years helped convince him.

Now, the Arsenal boss has told of how he was immediately impressed by Willian’s attitude after he first met him.

When asked by the outlet about Willian’s Champions League comments, Arteta replied: “Well, it is the right spirit! I want players who are optimistic and willing and they want to win for our club.

“That is the feeling I got from the first day I met Willian: he is not satisfied with what he has done in his career, which is a lot, and he is going to bring some special qualities for our team, and the type of attitude and mentality that you just mentioned in your question.”

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Willian’s stellar CV speaks for itself, along with his impressive displays week-in, week-out in English and European football – he is an incredibly talented player, fast, agile, hard-working and technically gifted.

Arsenal have done well in signing him as the Arteta revolution rolls on – the Spaniard has wasted no time in stamping his mark on the team and, with one major trophy in the bag already and some exciting movement in the transfer market, it bodes well for the club.