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Arsenal goalkeeper Lucas Martin Nygaard has opened up about his decision to join the Gunners, turning down offers from top European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus.
Nygaard, who signed his first professional contract with Arsenal on his 18th birthday, described the club’s clear project and welcoming atmosphere as decisive factors in his move to north London. The former FC Nordsjaelland shot-stopper was a highly sought-after free agent earlier this year, drawing interest from PSG, Juventus, AS Monaco, and Arsenal following impressive trials and strong performances in Denmark.
“There were many clubs to turn to last summer,” Nygaard told Danish outletEkstrabladet. “Monaco was really interested, and Juventus was really interested. PSG and Arsenal were also really interested, but the choice fell on Arsenal in the end.”
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The 18-year-old Danish goalkeeper noted that language played a role in his decision to reject PSG, where communication was challenging due to the lack of English speakers. “It was a great experience [at PSG], but it was a bit difficult because they didn’t really speak English,” he said. “Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they have a really good project going. When I was there training, I was impressed. The people around the club, my teammates, and the project were really exciting. I could see myself in it, so that’s why I chose them.”
The Gunners’ emphasis on youth development under Mikel Arteta, along with their possession-based style of play, made them a perfect fit for Nygaard, who is known for his quick reflexes, calm distribution, and confidence with the ball at his feet.
New Arsenal academy goalkeeper Lucas Nygaard
Arsenal academy goalkeeper Lucas Nygaard
Since joining the club, Nygaard has made an immediate impression, earning the starting role for Arsenal’s U21 side and featuring in three additional appearances for the U19s. A highlight of his young Arsenal career came in a UEFA Youth League clash against PSG, where his string of crucial saves underlined the club’s belief in his potential.
Denmark U19 manager Lasse Stensgaard recently praised the teenager’s attitude, calling him “a real winner who will do everything he can to win.” That mindset was on display during Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States in 2024, where Nygaard trained with the first team and gained invaluable experience alongside senior players like David Raya.
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“It was a great experience to see how such a setup is,” Nygaard told Tipsbladet. “When you leave with the first team, there are bodyguards and chefs with you. It makes you train even harder to get those experiences.”
Arsenal’s goalkeeping department saw major changes in 2024, with Aaron Ramsdale and Arthur Okonkwo both departing, creating opportunities for younger talents to step up. With David Raya now a permanent signing from Brentford, Nygaard is being viewed as a long-term option for the first team.
Looking ahead, the Danish youngster is open to gaining senior experience through a loan spell, with a return to Denmark among the possible destinations.
“I feel ready to play senior football,” he said. “We’ve been talking, me and Arsenal, about me going out on loan.”
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