Willian: Arteta convinced me Arsenal will fight for trophies

has said that his conversations with Mikel Arteta were crucial to his decision to join Arsenal, with the head coach convincing him that the club could fight for trophies again.

The Brazilian’s move from Chelsea on a free transfer was finally confirmed yesterday morning as Arsenal announced that the 32-year-old had signed a three-year deal.

Arteta has played a key role in recruitment and contract negotiations since his appointment in December, proving himself to be capable of convincing players and staff to buy into his project.

This was the case again with Willian, who also had an offer of a twoyear extension at Chelsea as well as proposals from Inter Miami and two other leading European clubs.

It is understood that Willian’s base salary will be about £100,000 per week, less than Chelsea offered, but it does include a series of potentially lucrative bonuses.

“I think that with Arteta, Arsenal have a great opportunity to fight again for titles in the Premier League and in Europe, so I am very happy because of that,” Willian said. “When I talked to Mikel, the conversation was good. He gave me confidence to come to Arsenal. He said a lot of good things to me and that is why I have come.”

Willian provides experience and versatility in attack, where he can play on either flank or in a more central creative position.

“I believe he’s a player that can really make a difference for us,” Arteta said. “He is a player who gives us a lot of versatility.”