“You need that”: Mikel Arteta comments on Arsenal’s recruitment this season

With Arsenal letting both Folarin Balogun and Granit Xhaka leave in the summer, many wondered how the club would strengthen their squad. Any questions were soon answered by a club record fee for Declan Rice, €75 million for Kai Havertz, €40 million for Jurrien Timber and a loan move for David Raya. However, many questioned Arteta and Arsenal’s decisions with Havertz and Raya a key talking point.

But Rice, Raya and Havertz have all answered their critics with all three men thriving over the course of the season. So much so, that Raya has won the Golden Glove for the most clean sheets, Havertz has broken his best scoring record since leaving Germany and Rice has been lauded as one of the league’s best. Not only that, Arsenal lead the way in title race with Manchester City and Liverpool close behind the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta comments on Arsenal’s recruitment

It has many reneging their criticism of Arsenal and Arteta from the summer especially given the performances from their signings. However, more so, how well the trio have gelled with Jurrien Timber’s pre-season ACL injury making him the only signing not to play in the league so far. That could change before the season ends as the defender is fully fit and back in training.

But in light of the performances, Arteta was asked about the club’s recruitment and admitted that the new players have raised the level of the squad. Not only that, the Spaniard added that the performance against Bournemouth showcased just how well the team has performed individually. He also praised Kai Havertz’ recent performances especially his performance against the Cherries.

“If we spend money we’d better do it wisely and in the most effective way. We’re really happy with the recruitment that we had. It had a big impact in the team, it has raised not only the level of the team but the level of the rest of the players as well. You see today (Saturday) we had some big performances from a lot of individuals. If we want to be at that stage you need that,” Arteta said, reported Goal.

“He (Havertz) was unbelievable today, honestly. Everything he did: the timings, the movements, how he keeps the ball, the way he goes to the press, how he links play, his understanding of the game. He was unbelievable today.”

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