Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praises Willian

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has raved about Willian, as quoted in The London Evening Standard.

Arteta has been impressed with Willian since his move in the summer of 2020 following his departure from London and Premier League rivals Chelsea.

The Arsenal boss has said that the Brazil international, who can play as a winger or as an attacking midfielder, will get better.

Arteta has said that he has seen Willian develop in the last two games and has high expectations of him.

The Spaniard told The London Evening Standard about Willian: “I think he started really well with his first game against Fulham and then we’ve been changing the front-three.

“He had an injury and he didn’t have any time to train, he didn’t have any pre-season, he was later than the others. They need to generate that cohesion, that understanding and those relationships on the pitch between the front players, the wide players in order for things to work better.

“I can see a development in the last two games and the understanding of things that we do but he’s not used to. He’s getting better and better and we all know the quality that he has and he’s a great option to have on the pitch.

“He’s a player who can make a difference, he’s got the ability to find that last action to open the door when everything is really tight.”

How has Willian fared at Arsenal so far?

Much was expected of Willian when he arrived at the Emirates Stadium on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old was one of the best attacking players during his time at Chelsea, and despite his age, he remains a very mobile, athletic and creative footballer.

Willian has not made the best of starts at Arsenal, and the former Chelsea star has also been unlucky with injuries.

However, the winger is back to full fitness now, and his importance in the team is only going to grow in the coming weeks and months.

According to WhoScored, Willian has made six appearances in the Premier League, and has made one start and one substitute appearance in the Europa League for Arsenal so far this season.

Arsenal are aiming to finish in the top four of the Premier League table, and the Gunners are also looking to go a long way in the Europa League.

For the North London club to achieve their objectives this season, Willian will have to play a big role.