Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi has completed his loan move to Ligue 1 side Marseille. The 22-year-old previously had a loan spell in the Bundesliga with Hertha Berlin, where he played 24 times, scoring on just two occasions. The deals comes as little surprise when considering Guendouzi’s position in the Arsenal squad. He is more a castaway rather than an active player; banished away due to previous actions.
Yet, it must be said, the Frenchman never failed to impress at the Emirates. In fact, it was his actions in Brighton which cost him his place. Now, he is part of the ongoing list of players to leave the club this summer, albeit a temporary switch.
Matteo Guendouzi Completes Marseille Move
Can Arsenal Afford to Let Another Midfielder Go?
With Dani Ceballos and Martin Odegaard back at Real Madrid and Granit Xhaka seemingly on the verge of leaving, Arsenal’s midfield is almost as bare as their European honours. From deep positions, if Xhaka does complete his move to Roma, the Gunners will have just two players to call upon in Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey.
Meanwhile, in the advanced roles, they’ll have Emile Smith Rowe and Joe Willock, if he decides to stay put. Bukayo Saka can fill in when needed, but will likely be utilised from the right or left of midfield instead. The fact is, Mikel Arteta needs another midfielder before the season stars. What he does not need, however, is another midfielder kicked out of the Emirates door.
Matteo Guendouzi could have been a real asset to Arteta. He can drive from midfield, break up play and has a good enough passing ability to slot in. At the age of 22, he has years to improve as well. A loan move may result in this improvement but Arsenal’s lack of central players as a result of the move may cost them.
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