Arteta usually makes great choices in terms of transfers, purchases, and new players coming into Arsenal FC. This can be seen by making huge signings from Chelsea FC and nabbing Kai Havertz, who just scored two against his former side last week. Arteta usually has great data and stats that help him sign key players, progress in competition, succeed in European football, and compete for the English Premier League title.
and, sometimes, he just gets lucky. Arteta had his sights set on a key player who he thought would help the Gunners, but the player chose elsewhere. And now, Arteta is thanking his lucky stars that he let this one get away.
Arteta “Big Name” Signing Chooses Barca Over Arsenal
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Choosing Barca over Arsenal shows that a player really had great choices in terms of where they could go and further their career. Arsenal FC are giants in the Premier League that often compete for the title, partake in European football, and have a fantastic fan base.
On the other hand, Barcelona FC is one of the most well-known and reputable clubs in the world. This is the club that once housed Neymar, Messi, and Suarez – all at the same time. So, how can a player choose between two juggernauts?
Numerous factors go into where a player chooses to commit to for the next season, including salary, pay, contract negotiations, language, culture, and promises from the board members. This could be one of the reasons why Arteta’s potential signing chose Barca over Arsenal.
Joao Cancelo, a promising defender who made a name for himself years ago with his creative dribbling skills, defending capabilities, and clutch goal-scoring abilities, chose to head to Spain instead of England for Arteta’s side this past year. He could have chosen Barca due to his language speaking preferences, culture, and prowess of Barca.
No matter the reason, the Gunners’ coach is quite happy the Manchester City loanee chose to go to Spain instead of staying in the United Kingdom. Cancelo was part of the City squad that was one of the best in history, winning the treble and cementing Pep Guardiola’s legacy as one of the most decorated managers of all time.
But he has since had a fall from grace. Cancelo was part of the reason why Barca lost in the Champions League competition to the ever-tough Paris Saint Germain with Kylian Mbappe. Cancelo gave away a penalty against PSG, which led to a goal, and continued with his blunders in the latest match against Real Madrid.
Cancelo was easily dribbled past by Lucas Vaquez, leading to the first goal, and then was part of the chain reaction that led to the second goal by the same player.
What is Next for Arteta at Arsenal FC
Arteta is lucky that Arteta chose Barcelona instead of Arsenal this upcoming season. Arsenal can now focus on the players they do have who are playing extremely well in the EPL in the 2023-2024 year.
Bukayo Saka is one of the most creative and pacy wingers in the league, causing opportunity after opportunity for the Gunners. Declan Rice commands the midfield and strings together passes to his front line.
Havertz has performed very well in front of goal in the most recent matches, scoring twice against the Blues. Other players, like Jurrien Timber, have been great transfers in for the squad in place of the struggling Cancelo.
We hope Cancelo can find his form and reclaim the prowess of his former glory years with Manchester City.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
