Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that a conversation with his longtime friend Xabi Alonso played a key role in convincing him to sign defender Piero Hincapié, according to recent reports.
The Ecuador international joined ARSENAL on loan from Bayer Leverkusen during the 2025 summer transfer window, with the Gunners holding an option to make the deal permanent for around £45 million.
Arteta admitted he turned to Alonso — who previously coached Hincapié in Germany — for insight before finalising the move. The two managers share a close relationship that dates back to their childhood in San Sebastián, where they played together and developed a lasting friendship.
According to reports, Arteta contacted Alonso to ask about the defender’s mentality and personality inside the dressing room. The former Leverkusen boss reportedly gave a glowing endorsement of Hincapié, describing him as a “warrior” and praising his competitiveness and determination on the pitch.
That assessment helped reinforce Arsenal’s belief that the 24-year-old would fit perfectly into Arteta’s demanding system, which places a strong emphasis on intensity, resilience and tactical discipline.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Arteta said: ‘When I spoke to Xabi just before we were going to sign him, I said if you have to describe him in one word, what would you use, and he said, “He’s a warrior.”
‘He will play through brick walls for you and he’s one of the most competitive players that I have had. He’s come into the Premier League after surgery and a difficult start without a pre-season, and when you see him around his team-mates and competing on the pitch, it’s like he’s been here for 10 years.
‘He has an aura, a charisma – a really special character.’
Since arriving in north London, Hincapié has quickly become an important figure in *ARSENAL*’s squad. The versatile defender is capable of playing both as a centre-back and a left-back, offering Arteta valuable tactical flexibility.
Reports indicate that the Ecuadorian has already made more than two dozen appearances this season and has established himself as one of the club’s most reliable defensive options.
His performances have strengthened Arsenal’s defence during a campaign in which the club is competing on multiple fronts, including the Premier League and European competitions.
Hincapié’s arrival also reflects Arteta’s broader recruitment strategy, which focuses not only on technical ability but also on mentality and character. The Arsenal manager has repeatedly emphasised the importance of signing players who are prepared to compete relentlessly and adapt to the club’s high-pressure environment.
Alonso’s recommendation therefore proved significant. Having coached Hincapié extensively during his time at Leverkusen — including during the club’s historic Bundesliga-winning campaign — the Spanish coach had first-hand knowledge of the defender’s qualities.
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