Mikel Arteta believes new Arsenal signing Piero Hincapie is ready to start as he explains reason for transfer.
Arteta is confident over his new signing Piero Hincapie
Arsenal’s summer business has added another layer with the arrival of Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen. The player earned plenty of praise in the Bundesliga.
Now, he’s been tasked with boosting Arsenal’s defensive depth. Arteta was specific about why Hincapie was a target. In being able to play centre-back and left-back, it lets the Gunners have greater flexibility over a long season.
With injuries already popping up in defence, the head coach stressed the importance of Hincapie. He is not one for the future but someone who can step straight into action. Arteta even went so far as to say the defender is “ready” for his debut. That says it all about how highly he is trusted.
The player has the blend of strength, speed and composure on the ball that the North London side need. The head coach thinks he can improve the standards in the squad. This will make sure no one feels secure in their spot.
The Gunners already has standout names like Saliba and Gabriel. But, the manager feels the new man offers something extra. He can be called upon when the PL season throws up challenges.
Tough competition ahead
The tricky part for Hincapie will be getting regular minutes. Saliba and Gabriel remain untouchable at centre-back. The left side also has Riccardo Calafiori and the promising Myles Lewis-Skelly. On top of that, the Gunners added young talent Cristhian Mosquera, meaning the fight for places will be tough.
Hincapie might have to earn his time. But, given Arsenal’s schedule in the league and Europe, his chance should come sooner rather than later.
Arteta has been here before, stressing that strong squads are built on players who can step in without the team missing a beat. Hincapie fits that bill, and will be facing heavy competition. But, his adaptability could turn him into one of the season’s quiet success stories at the Emirates.
Author’s Opinion:
Hincapie may not walk straight into the XI, but Arsenal have signed a player with serious upside. His talent makes him a smart pick-up. So, over a long campaign, he could prove to be one of Arteta’s most useful options.
