Arsenal hoping to offload the player this summerplaceholder image
Arsenal hoping to offload the player this summer | Getty Images
One failed Arsenal signing has been speaking about his tough spell at the Emirates Stadium.
An Arsenal flop has been speaking about the tough time he had at the club as he prepares for a likely exit this summer. The Gunners have made some good signings over recent years, but they have also had their fair share of missteps.
One of them was Fabio Vieira, who did not work out after a £34million move to the Emirates Stadium in 2022. Mikel Arteta has never been convinced by the attacking midfielder, and Vieira is now on his second loan spell.
Vieira is currently with Hamburg, so far scoring five times and providing as many assists this season. There is said to be a 20million euro option to buy built into the loan, but there have been reports that the two clubs are in talks to slash that fee in order to strike a deal.
Vieira is only under contract until 2027, so making 20million back does seem unrealistic for Arsenal, and they know they have a buyer in Hamburg if they are willing to take less.
The player will be on board for a move, too, clearly enjoying himself after a tough spell at Arsenal “It wasn’t an easy time for me,” Vieira told Sport Bild, reflecting on his Arsenal spell.
“It was clear that I wouldn’t get much playing time at Arsenal, so I wanted to move. The transfer window only had two days left, I was alone in London, and I was waiting to see what opportunities might arise. I was nervous because I didn’t know what would happen next for me.
“It’s great that things worked out with Hamburg. I’m happy here and enjoying football again. The past two years at Arsenal didn’t go so well for me. Moving to HSV was a very good and important step in my career.”
Asked about the possibility of staying in Germany, Vieira added: “I have no influence over the purchase option – we’ll see what happens in the end.
“I’m happy here. HSV is a great club with a rich history. Before my move, I was shown a video highlighting the club’s achievements, like winning what is now known as the Champions League and league titles. That’s impressive. Hamburg is a wonderful city, too. My family and I feel very comfortable here.
“The fact is, I still have a contract with Arsenal (until 2027, editor’s note). But generally, it’s always good for a player to know early which club you’re playing for – to take part in pre-season with the team and integrate quickly.”
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