Spaniard pens long-term deal at Emirates Stadium
Arsenal Football Club have announced that Hector Bellerin has signed a new long-term deal at the club, ending speculation surrounding his future.
The Spaniard had a breakthrough season at the Emirates Stadium during the 2014/2015 campaign after Mathieu Debuchy suffered numerous injuries during his debut year at Arsenal.
Bellerin made 28 appearances for The Gunners last season, scoring two goals in the Premier League, with one coming during Arsenal’s emphatic 4-1 win over Liverpool at the Emirates.
After some standout performances last season, Bellerin was linked with a shock return to FC Barcelona, the team he left back in 2011 after failing to breakthrough.
However, the right-back has ended all speculation by signing a new long-term deal in North London.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was full of praise for the young defender, and the Frenchman challenged him to kick on next season.
Wenger Issues Bellerin Challenge
“He is one of the players who emerged last year and had a very good season,” the manager said.
“Bellerin and Coquelin were not necessarily planned last season to come out and they have to confirm that this season. That’s always very difficult, to produce a similar performance in the second season.
“That’s their challenge. He’s a very mature and very focused player. I’m confident he will have a good season again.”
Wenger then admitted he knew Bellerin could become a big part of the club, even when he first saw him play.
Wenger Spotted Talent
“His progress has been huge because if you had asked me that question last year, exactly on the same day, I would not have guaranteed you that Bellerin would be a regular player in the club by the end of the season but he managed to do it,” Wenger told Arsenal Player.
“Mathieu is a guy who has always shown unbelievable mental strength and has top quality. He’s a regular player in the French national team so Hector cannot rest. He has a big battle to face.
“I will use Calum Chambers more as a central defender but he can also help out at right back as well.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
