Spain full-back Nacho Monreal feels Arsenal’s own brand of tiki-taka football will help him settle quickly into life at Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners moved to push through a deadline day deal with Malaga after England defender Kieran Gibbs hobbled off in Wednesday night’s draw against Liverpool with a thigh problem. Monreal, 26, could make his debut in Saturday’s home clash against Stoke, and is relishing the chance to be part of the Gunners’ traditional quick passing game.
Speaking in an interview with Arsenal Media, the Spain international said: “Arsenal like to keep the ball, which is beneficial for me and I like this part of the team’s game. I love playing with the ball at my feet, short, sharp touches, and good movement.”
He continued: “I think Arsenal do have certain elements of the Spanish football philosophy. The Spanish people know that there are players of great quality in this team and I hope we can play good football.”
Monreal is confident he can handle the hustle-and-bustle of English top-flight football.
“The Premier League is one of the strongest there is and everyone knows about it,” he said.
“It is a completely different way of playing to the Spanish league – it’s a lot more physical, for example. As the days go by I will get used to things and I will give my all.”
Monreal joins fellow Spaniards Mikel Arteta and Santi Cazorla, his former Malaga team-mate, in the Arsenal squad.
“I spoke to Santi, we had a long conversation about things. I asked how things were here and he only had very positive things to say,” Monreal added. “He said that the club was a massive club, the people are great and it’s really just a big family.
“As there’s a familiar face in Santi, I am a lot calmer about things. Having shared a dressing room with someone who’s already made this journey is a good feeling. Now it’s my turn and I can’t wait to follow in his footsteps. I am sure we can be successful this season and I am really looking forward to the challenge.”
Source: PA