Mikel Arteta described the transfer of Thiago Alcantara ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool twice in quick succession.
Arsenal gaffer Mikel Arteta considers Thiago Alcantara as a “great signing” for Liverpool. The Gunners will play against the Merseyside boys two times in four days.
Arteta’s team will travel to Anfield on Monday to play in the English League. Additionally, the club will play another game against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Thursday.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson will potentially miss their first game. Subsequently, new signing Alcantara will get to feature in both the fixtures.
The Reds purchased the 29 year old for an initial fee of £20 million in the last week. During a conference, Arteta admired the Spanish international as “very special”.
“Yes, I think he is a great signing for Liverpool,” Arteta said of his compatriot in his pre-match press conference.
“Incredible personality, great talent, very special, great qualities to play in midfield.”
Although, Liverpool secured first spot when it came to Thiago’s transfer. The club reportedly struggled because of late threats from Manchester United to sign the Spanish midfielder.
Finally, Arsenal managed to sign the former Barcelona player.
Arteta did not want to reveal information about Thiago’s transfer deal. He responded: “We don’t discuss the things we try and do in the market, but I like him from my time in Barcelona.”
The former Arsenal player explained his thoughts about facing Liverpool two times in quick succession.
He added: “It is normally difficult enough to play the same team in four days and for the players as well to adapt.
“Obviously, the first game has a big impact on the second one and it is really tough to beat the same opponent twice in that short period.
“When you talk about Liverpool that challenge is much bigger but I just want to focus on Monday.
“Let’s try to get the best possible preparation against them, go there, and most importantly have the belief that we can go there and win. We all have to believe that we are capable of doing that.
“We know the challenge ahead of us, so let’s embrace it, let’s go for it.”
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