Illan Meslier admits he worked hard in training to ‘show my value is still high’ during his final season at Leeds United.
The Frenchman left Elland Road after seven years when his contract expired at the end of last month, having lost his place in the Daniel Farke’s match-day squad.
The German’s preference for last summer’s signing Lucas Perri and latterly Karl Darlow meant Meslier went from playing 89 games in the previous two seasons – to none in 2025/26.
But as soon as he hit the free agent market Arsenal snapped him up, to work with established No. 1 David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga – and Meslier says the Gunners ‘did a great job to take me’.
“Last season was a strange year for me,” he said. “Unfortunately this happens a lot in the career of players but I never give up and I kept working hard every day in training, always being ready for the players who needed help, to work on their weakness, on their strengths also.
“I worked a lot mentally to be honest because I just had a different perspective on football and training. It helped me a lot personally. I wanted to give everything and I show that my value is still high and Arsenal did a great job to take me.”
Meslier, who was also of interest to Birmingham City to be their first choice, revealed he held talks with Mikel Arteta before the move.
“I spoke with Mikel, it was a very nice conversation, he explained what it was he is expecting for me. Also the size of the club, he said this will be a massive change, he said just be ready and you will enjoy it.
“When I came to Leeds I didn’t speak English at all and didn’t know the league, seven years later I speak English now and also know the Prem, it is easier for me to adapt and communicate with my team-mates.
“I am a keeper who loves to think, I am very proactive, I like to take the decision, I also love to play from the floor, use my feet, so with a team like that with the quality of player, I have no doubt it will be easier for me to play with those guys. I like to help the team as much as I can.”
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