Arsenal News And Videos

ATVO Exclusive: Ramsey - It’s great to be back - 13th Ocotber 2010

2010-10-16T12:27:00.004+05:30

Hotfile

FileServe

Use this Referral Link to register in Fileserve as that will be the hosting site, to which I will upload. Free registered users get more speed than the anonymous user.

Shifting to the new Football videos Forum

2008-10-22T16:38:00.009+05:30

I have created a new football forum as its easier to manage than a blog, so here is the link the new forum

Football video Forum(You will have to register first to view the page)

I will be updating the forum with all the videos, not only Arsenal matches.

Goals and highlights from almost all thefootball matches that take place will be uploaded.

Use this Referral Link to register in Fileserve as that will be the hosting site, to which I will upload. Free registered users get more speed that the anonymous user.

Meet you there :)

Sunderland V Arsenal EPL 4 October

2008-10-05T00:20:00.000+05:30

Sunderland 1-1 Arsenal

1-0 Leadbitter
1-1 Fabregas

Highlights here and here

Arsenal V Porto UEFA Champions League 30th September

2008-10-01T16:33:00.001+05:30

Arsenal 4-0 Porto

1-0 R. Van Persie
2-0 I. Adebayor
3-0 R. Van Persie
4-0 I. Adebayor

Highlights

1st Half
2nd Half

ITV Highlights

Arsenal V Hull City 27th September EPL

2008-09-28T10:28:00.001+05:30

Arsenal V Hull City

1-0 McShane (og)
1-1 Giovanni
1-2 Cousin

Highlights
1st Half
2nd Half

MOTD highlights

Bolton Wanderers Vs Arsenal 20 September BPL

2008-09-21T14:53:00.001+05:30

Bolton Wanderers 1-3 Arsenal

Davies 14'

Eboue 24'
Bendtnder 27'
Denilson 86'

All goals here and here

All goals

MOTD highlights

1st Half and 2nd Half highlights

Full Match, just 232mb

Blackburn V Arsenal EPL 13th September

2008-09-13T22:58:00.001+05:30

Blackburn 0-4 Arsenal EPL 13th September

0-1 van Persie

0-2 Adebayor

0-3 Adebayor (p)

0-4 Adebayor

Motd Highlights here

MOTD goal of the month,August here

Arsenal V Newcastle BPL 30th August

2008-08-31T11:45:00.003+05:30

Arsenal 3 -0 Newcastle

17' Van Persie (Pen)

41' Van Persie

59' Denilson

First Half Highlights here.

Second Half Highlights here.

MOTD highlghits here

Arsenal v Twente UCL Qualifers 27th August

2008-08-28T07:54:00.001+05:30

Arsenal 4-0 Twente

1-0 Nasri

Download

2-0 Gallas

Download

3-0 Theo

Download

4-0 Bendtner

Download

Arsenal V West Bromwich Albion BPL

2008-08-16T19:40:00.004+05:30

Arsenal 1-0 West Bromwich Albion

1-0 Nasri Watch/Download

First Half Highlights

Second Half Highlights

Full Match

Part 1
Part 2

Match report here

Twente V Arsenal UEFA Champions League Qualifiers First Leg

2008-08-14T22:27:00.005+05:30

Twente 0 - 2 Arsenal

63' Gallas
Download here and here 82'

Adebayor
Download here and here

First Half Highlights
Download here and here

Full Match Highlights
Download here and here

Full Match Downoad

Match Report here

Wenger's post match comments here

Sevilla Vs Arsenal Amsterdam Tournament 9th August

2008-08-10T11:00:00.002+05:30

Sevilla 1-1 Arsenal

1-0 Vela Download

1-1 Ernesto Javier Chevanton Download

Trophy Presentation download

Wengers post match reaction here

Match report here

Ajax Vs. Arsenal Amsterdam Tournament 8th August

2008-08-09T12:42:00.003+05:30

Ajax 2-3 Arsenal

1-0 Suarez View/Download

2-0 Huntelaar View/Download

2-1 Adebayor View/Download

2-2 Bendtner View/Download

2-3. Adebayor View/Download

Highlights

First Half

Second Half

Match Report here

Huddersfield Town V Arsenal Friendly 6th August

2008-08-07T08:34:00.002+05:30

Huddersfield Town 1-2 Arsenal

1-0 Berret View /Download

1-1 Watt View /Download

1-2 Barazite View /Download

Highlights

Match Report here

Arsenal V Real Madrid Emirates cup 3rd August

2008-08-04T10:54:00.003+05:30

Arsenal 1-0 Real Madrid

1-0 Adebayor view

First half highlights here

Second half highlights here

credit:Mr.Mercury

Match report here

Wenger's post match reaction here.

Arsenal V Juventus Emirates Cup 2 August

2008-08-03T11:42:00.002+05:30

Arsenal 0-1 Juventus

1-0 Trezeguet
Download

Highlights

First Half

Second Half

credit:ARSENAL LOVER

Match report here

Wengers post match reaction here

Arsenal face FC Twente in Champions League

2008-08-01T21:58:00.001+05:30

Arsenal will face FC Twente in the Third Qualifying Round of the Champions League.

Arsène Wenger's team will travel to Holland for the start of their latest European campaign on August 12 or 13 before welcoming the Dutch side - and new manager Steve McClaren - back to Emirates Stadium for the second leg on August 26 or 27.

Stuttgart V Arsenal 30th July

2008-07-31T14:23:00.003+05:30

Stuttgart 1-3 Arsenal

1-0 Basturk View/Download

1-1 Vela View/Download

1-2 Bendtner View/Download

1-3Wilshere View/Download

Highlights

Credit:arsenalist

Match Report here

Wenger's Post match comments here

Fabregas backs Gallas

2008-07-30T21:10:00.002+05:30

Cesc Fabregas has backed William Gallas to retain the captain's armband at Arsenal next season.

The Frenchman's position is under threat following a bizarre tantrum during the 2-2 draw against Birmingham in February, a game which saw the Gunners' title dreams begin to fade.

Spain international Fabregas admits that Arsenal's dramatic collapse last season was sparked by the St Andrews debacle, but feels that Gallas is still the ideal candidate to lead the club next term.

However, the ambitious 21-year-old did admit that he would relish the responsibility of skippering the side in the future.

"Maybe that is where all our problems started," he told FourFourTwo magazine.

"We had a month-and-a-half after that game where our heads were not right.

"William is a great captain, I really respect him, and the longer he is giving us the benefit of his experience, the better."

Fabregas added: "I've shown I can take that responsibility and if I was made captain I would give even more - I don't know where I'd get that little extra from but I'd try to find it.

"But I'm only 21. Right now I just want to win something for Arsenal."

Fabregas also revealed that Euro 2008 glory with his country has given him a taste for silverware which he hopes will be satisfied during the 2008/09 campaign.

"Before the Euros I didn't know how it felt to win," he said.

"But now that I have experienced it I know what it takes. You need to have tasted it. Look at Chelsea, they hadn't won anything in many years.

"They got experienced players in, won the league and that gave them experience and confidence together and others followed.

"Sometimes that is the key. Everyone said before last season that we weren't even going to finish amongst the top four and we proved them wrong. But we were halted at the gates of success and that's hard. It has to serve as a lesson this season."

The young Spaniard also has complete faith in Arsene Wenger's transfer policy of buying potential, as opposed to the finished article.

"We sign what we need," he said.

"Sometimes teams pay a fortune for a player with experience, who knows how to win, who at key moments can win you a game - and that's important.

"But at Arsenal there's a different policy and we have to respect that.

"The day we win something with these players, with this policy, this atmosphere and style, there will be a big change - almost a revelation.

"People tell me that we are on course to do that, but we need that stepping stone of winning something, of knowing how to win."

Portuguese midfielder Amaury Bischoff joins Arsenal

2008-07-30T21:04:00.001+05:30

Arsenal can today confirm the signing of midfielder Amaury Bischoff.

The French-born Portugal Under-21 international, 21, was a youngster with French clubs SR Colmar and Strasbourg before moving to Werder Bremen in 2005.

Bischoff, who can play either in the centre of midfield or on the right, was a regular at youth levels for Werder Bremen. His one senior appearance for the Bundesliga club came against Celta Vigo in the UEFA Cup in 2007.

Amaury has played for France's Under-18 team, however in 2007 he elected to train with Portugal and to date has appeared for their Under-21 side.

Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to welcome Amaury, who will wear squad No 28, and will join up with his team-mates for pre-season when the squad returns from their training camp in Austria.

Burgenland XI v Arsenal 28th July

2008-07-29T12:38:00.000+05:30

Burgenland XI 2-10 Arsenal

Jack Wilshire 1-0 Download

Nicklas Bendtner 2-0 Download

Nicklas Bendtner 3-0 Download

Carlos Vela 4-0 Download

Nicklas Bendtner 5-0 Download

Carlos Vela 6-0 Download

Nicklas Bendtner 7-0 Download

Carlos Vela 8-0 Download

Jack Wilshire 9-0 Download

Theo Walcott 10-0 Download

All goals in 1 file Download

Highlights

First Half

Second Half

Credit: Iker91,Mie and rd.leo23

Match Report here

Cesc: Time not right for Real deal

2008-07-28T10:36:00.001+05:30

Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas admits he is keen on a move to Real Madrid, but has poured cold water on claims he may quit the Gunners this summer

Reports in Spain suggest Madrid president Ramon Calderon, resigned to missing out on Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, has prepared a big-money offer for the 21-year-old.

But while Fabregas, a product of the Barcelona youth academy, revealed he could move to Madrid in the future, he insists he wants to stay at the Emirates Stadium for the time being.

"I didn't tell Ramon Calderon no," he told Spanish sports daily Marca.

"I told him that now wasn't the time to go to Madrid.

"That you are wanted by Madrid, one of the biggest teams in history, is important."

Fabregas enjoyed a great summer as he helped Spain end their 44-year wait for a trophy at Euro 2008.

Domestically, however, for the third year on the trot, the midfielder ended yet another season empty-handed.

And the young star, who feels he would be certain to lift a trophy should he opt for the Spanish champions, admits another season without any silverware could see him head for the exit door.

"To be four seasons without winning any titles would be too much for me," Fabregas added.

"Real Madrid are the favourites to win La Liga this year."

Arsenal's trophy-less season was made even more painful as rivals Manchester United swept all before them at home and in Europe.

Fabregas is in no doubt that the man who made the difference for United would be a big success at the Bernabeu.

"The league and the Champions League that United won this season was because of Cristiano," he continued. "At Madrid he would help them win titles."

Rosicky trusts Wenger over transfer policy

2008-07-28T10:32:00.001+05:30

Tomas Rosicky has played down fears that Arsenal may not be such a force in the Premier League following a number of high-profile departures.

Mathieu Flamini left Emirates Stadium at the end of last season and Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva have both followed in recent weeks.

There has also been speculation over the future of Emmanuel Adebayor and Cesc Fabregas, but Rosicky is not worried by the situation.

The Czech Republic international trusts Arsene Wenger in the transfer market and is confident that Arsenal will be able to mount a strong challenge, just as they did last season after Thierry Henry's exit.

"It is something similar to the last season, when everybody was writing us off," Rosicky told deniksport.cz.

"Now, it will be the same. Some players have left but I trust the coach over this.

"He knows what he is doing. Personally, my ambitions are not smaller and I think this counts for the rest of the team.

"Definitely it was an excellent midfield and it is a pity that we have not remained together as we were attuned on the same tune.

"On the other hand, if the guys wanted to leave, it is only their decision."

Samir Nasri has arrived this summer and is expected to fill Hleb's role, but Rosicky does not expect Wenger to sign a replacement for holding midfielder Flamini.

Rosicky believes Abou Diaby could be entrusted with the key role and he has tipped the Frenchman to make a big impact this season.

"I don't know if the coach will bring someone in," said Rosicky.

"I think that Diaby will be given a big chance to play often in Flamini's position. He was playing on the left when I was injured, but he is more a centre midfielder, the same type like Patrick Vieira.

"I expect a lot from him as I know from training that it is difficult to play against him. He has long legs and really is very similar to Vieira. In my opinion, he is able to do very well."

Clichy stakes claim for captain's role

2008-07-28T10:24:00.002+05:30

Gael Clichy has told Arsene Wenger he is ready and willing to be Arsenal’s full-time captain for the coming season, having gained a taste of the responsibility in recent weeks.

With current incumbent William Gallas absent in the opening two games of the club’s pre-season schedule, and deputy Kolo Toure sidelined with malaria, Clichy was handed the armband against Barnet and Szombathelyi.

It was a significant moment for the Frenchman who is a cast-iron fans’ favourite at Emirates Stadium thanks to the way he has replaced Ashley Cole with such energy and commitment in the past two seasons.

Clichy, along with Toure, is also one of only two remaining veterans from the 2003-2004 ‘Invincibles’ season and having signed a new long-term contract in North London, is likely to be an established member of the side for years to come.

Questions have been asked of Gallas’ suitability for the role after his display of petulance at Birmingham last season, and Clichy is ready to take on the mantle of leading the side if required.

"It's a fantastic honour and I don't know if it will carry on like this but if the boss needs me then I will try,” Clichy told Arsenal TV. “Maybe I was the oldest player in the team so I guess it is my time.

"It is a great pleasure for me and I will keep doing it until the boss tells me. Hopefully I am doing it well and I will try my best.

"It is fantastic to work with the young players because we know when the boss brings them in they have got quality.

"It is a pleasure to work with them and they have all got good spirit and the atmosphere is good. I hope they will progress because we will need everyone this year to win something."

Wenger is set to hand Gallas a second chance as Arsenal skipper

2008-07-27T12:35:00.002+05:30

Arsene Wenger is set to hand William Gallas a second chance as Arsenal skipper – just to keep him at the club.

The Gunners boss has spent the summer contemplating whether to take the armband off his French defender and give it to either Cesc Fabregas or Kolo Toure.

But although he has yet to confirm his final decision it seems that Wenger will choose to ignore the demands from Arsenal fans and officials to replace Gallas.

And the Arsenal manager’s mind was made up last week amid news Paris St Germain want to add Gallas to their ranks.

The French club are waiting in the background and ready to pounce at the first sign of unrest from Gallas.

And Wenger can ill afford to upset the centre-half and risk losing him so close to the start of the Premier League season.

When asked about interest in Gallas at the unveiling of new signing Claude Makelele from Chelsea, PSG president Charles Villeneuve said: “We would be happy to be given a ring by William Gallas, very pleased. But for the moment there is no news.”

The issue of Gallas’ leadership has been under the spotlight ever since he lost his rag at Birmingham in February after a last-gasp penalty denied Arsenal victory and led to his bizarre one-man protest in the centre circle.

Despite Wenger publicly defending the former Chelsea star’s actions at the time, privately he gave him a severe dressing down and warned him his position as captain was under review.

A significant number of Arsenal fans have voiced their view that Gallas should be stripped of the captaincy in favour of Ivory Coast star Toure, while the matter has also been debated at recent board meetings.

But, while viewing Fabregas as the ideal long-term solution, Wenger is concerned the Spanish superstar, at just 22, is still too young.

And Toure facing a race against time to be fit for August 16 after falling ill with malaria, Wenger has no option but to stick with Gallas.

However, the temperamental ace, who turns 31 next month, has been told that if he steps out of line again he will lose the job with immediate effect.

Arsenal is football - Nasri

2008-07-26T19:24:00.000+05:30

Arsenal is the definition of football, according to new signing Samir Nasri.

In a refreshing interview, The Gunners’ new signing has hailed his new employers for their rich history and spectacular football.

Nasri claims Arsene Wenger’s systems are beautiful to watch and the playmaker cannot wait to make his debut for his new side.

“I love the game, I’m passionate and Arsenal’s football culture made me dream,” Nasri told L’Equipe.

“I had a lot of fun watching all their games last season. To me, this culture and the way they play represent what football should be.”

The Marseille icon is hopeful he will improve both tactically and physically in order to settle in The Premier League.

“When you see how they play in England, it means I need to improve on the physical level and in the air, as well in terms of intensity and regularity,” he commented.

“The team plays in 4-4-2. I had a chat with Arsene Wenger and I’m going to play on a wing because that is where their playmakers are, splitting with the full backs.”

The 21-year-old is in for something of a culture shock as he will be leaving home for the first time and has asked the club for help.

“My parents won’t be with me anymore so I’m going to have to cope with it and learn to be independent,” he said.

“In the meantime I have asked the club to have someone cooking for me and cleaning because I’m not used to being autonomous, I’ve always been living with my parents.”

Toure gets an illness boost

2008-07-26T10:15:00.001+05:30

Kolo Toure has made a amazing recovery from his malaria battle

The Arsenal centre-back is responding well to treatment and may even start light training early next week.

Ivory Coast star Toure, 27, picked up a mild strain of the disease while back home in Africa on his summer holiday.

He was taken to hospital and underwent tests after being diagnosed earlier this week.

It is unlikely Toure will play in Monday’s friendly against Burgenland before the final leg of Arsenal’s German tour.

The Gunners head off to Stuttgart for a warm-up match on Wednesday before flying back to London for next weekend’s Emirates Cup.

Almunia: Ramsey 'Very Similar' To Fabregas

2008-07-26T10:03:00.000+05:30

After an impressive season for Cardiff City, during which he helped the Bluebirds to the FA Cup final, Ramsey snubbed the likes of Manchester United and Everton to join Arsene Wenger’s young Gunners this summer.

The 17-year-old has earned rave reviews already during the pre-season. He demonstrated his vision and passing range to great effect during the first half against Barnet recently, giving credence to Wenger’s claim that the youngster’s future lies in central midfield.

The Arsenal manager also hinted that it will not be long before Ramsey makes the step up to the first-team, although it would seem he would have to displace Fabregas – perhaps Europe’s best young playmaker – for that to happen.

But as far as Almunia is concerned, if anyone is going to step in for his fellow Spaniard, then there are few more suitable candidates than Ramsey.

“Aaron is a very good creator of chances, very similar to Fabregas,” the 30-year-old goalkeeper told the press.

“But of course we must remember that he is still very young and he has to learn from people like Cesc, Abou Diaby and the rest of the players that have been here for more time.”

Bendtner Targets Starting Spot

2008-07-26T10:02:00.002+05:30

The Danish striker joined the Gunners in 2005, and through his loan spell at Birmingham City and his international exploits has become known as one of Europe’s hottest prospects.

However, the 20-year-old has failed to truly break through to date. He was little more than a bit-part player last term, as he was stuck firmly behind Emmanuel Adebayor, Eduardo da Silva and Robin van Persie in the Emirates pecking order.

But with Adebayor’s future hanging in the balance, Eduardo still recovering from a double leg-break and Van Persie courting interest from the Juventus medical team, Bendtner could find himself starting much more regularly during the coming campaign.

And that would suit the young Dane just fine, as he hopes to feature prominently while Arsenal push to break their title drought.

“I know everybody talks about winning things,” he told the club’s official website. “But that is what it is all about this year. I want to try and take a trophy home.

“I do set myself targets [in pre-season]. The main thing for everyone I think is to play a lot and of course I want to get more regularly into the squad.

“Then I want to progress in my own game. I want to prove to everyone what I can do.”

Sagna to prove he’s no one-season wonder

2008-07-25T21:00:00.001+05:30

Bacary Sagna may have enjoyed one of the best debut seasons in recent years but he is not resting on his laurels.

The right back is well aware of so-called “second season syndrome” and hopes to inoculate himself by winning a trophy with Arsenal in the coming campaign.

Speaking from the team’s training camp in Austria, the muscular 25-year-old intends to barge aside any lingering doubts with the same positive attitude that helped him excel last term.

“When I arrived people told me that the first season would be very difficult and you had to adapt,” he said. “But why wait? Why not play straight away?

“I just tried to do my best for the team and I was voted the best right back in the Premier League. But now I would like to achieve other things. Why not lift a cup?

“I know I have to confirm [my first-season form] but I feel confident and good in this team. I want to do a lot of things. I want to score and be more decisive now. I will try to do it.”

Twelve months ago, Sagna was a rookie in a position where Arsenal already had options, could he have imagined his first campaign going any better?

“No,” he replied flatly. “I did not know anything about English football when I arrived, only what I saw on TV. But I was not scared and adapted very quickly because of my team-mates and work of the staff.

“Everything was good for the first season and I thank the people who helped me. But now I want to fulfil more of my ambitions.”

Clichy - Winning Premier League is priority

2008-07-25T17:43:00.000+05:30

Winning the Premier League is of paramount importance for Gael Clichy. What is more, he is confident Arsenal can achieve just that.

The Frenchman is one of just two players in the current set-up to have tasted title glory with the Gunners. In 2004 he made just 12 league appearances, becoming the youngest player to collect a Premier League winner’s medal, but now Clichy looks set for a major roll as the Club aim for the top once again.

Arsenal’s last pre-season was awash with silverware but, come May, the team was left empty-handed. Understandably, Clichy would sacrifice a repeat of last summer’s success for the more illustrious trophies. At the moment though, the Frenchman’s aims are all short-term.

“For now we don’t talk about anything,” Clichy told Arsenal.com. “We are just focused on pre-season and getting ready for the start. As we get closer then we start talking about objectives and what we want to achieve.

“For me personally the championship is really important. I think it is the same for the boss, and I know we have the quality to do it. We can’t go through another season without winning something.

“[Pre-season success] is important in terms of progressing well before the actual campaign starts, but you see from last season we won both tournaments we entered, then come the end we had no trophies. If I could swap and avoid winning those cups and win something during the season that would be fantastic.

“But of course to win those tournaments would be great, especially against the great teams like Real and Juve, and in Amsterdam.”

Clichy - At 23 I'm one of the old men in the Arsenal side

2008-07-25T17:42:00.000+05:30

Gael Clichy feels he’s an “old man” in the Arsenal side now — even though he’ll only be turning 23 on Saturday.

The left back will celebrate his birthday this year at the team’s training camp in Austria.

With perhaps a decade of high-class football ahead of him, it may seem odd for the French full back to feel he is getting on. However, with 146 games under his belt, Clichy has the third highest number of Arsenal appearances in the current squad after Kolo Toure (285) and Cesc Fabregas (198). Also, some of his team-mates are now six years his junior.

“Even last season I felt a bit like this,” said Clichy. “Now I feel it even more.

“I am 23 soon. That does not give me any pressure and if I can give advice to the younger players then that is a great pleasure for me.

“OK I don’t really feel that old myself but when you have players like Jack [Wilshere] at 16 and Henri [Lansbury] at 17 on the pitch with you then you have to say you are old. That is it.

“So maybe I don’t feel old but I don’t feel young anymore and I have to get used to it.

“But at the same time, I know I still have time in my career and I hope to achieve great things.”

Clichy - Traore is the type of player we need

2008-07-24T21:06:00.001+05:30

Gael Clichy believes that Armand Traore could play a key role in Arsenal’s season, proclaiming that the 17-year old is an “amazing” talent.

The praise seems warranted. Traore has all the traits of a modern full-back but, with Clichy seemingly entrenched for the foreseeable future, the fleet-footed Traore has been pushed further up the flank. And the Frenchman wasted little time in showing his prowess on the front foot - who can forget his pin-point cross to Nicklas Bendtner in last season’s League Cup win over Newcastle?

In fact over the last two seasons Traore has turned from hot prospect to Champions League starter, shooting to prominence during the young Gunners’ run to the 2007 Carling Cup Final. Clichy hopes that the emergence of his countryman will help both players to improve.

“He is a really powerful player,” Clichy told Arsenal.com. “He is really fast and a type of player that we need. I hope he can help push me further as a player and that I can drag him up too.

“He is a really amazing player and I hope he will be focused this season because I can see a role for him. I really hope that he will make it.”

Gilberto 'sad' to leave Gunners

2008-07-24T16:25:00.000+05:30

Former Arsenal stalwart Gilberto has revealed he is "sad" to have left the club in search of regular first-team football at Panathinaikos.

The Brazilian World Cup winner - part of the Invincibles side of 2003-04 - followed combative Mathieu Flamini and unsettled winger Alexander Hleb out of Emirates Stadium this summer.

Gilberto, 31, revealed manager Arsene Wenger had wanted him to stay at the club for a seventh season.

However, the midfielder maintains he felt it was the right time for a new challenge.

"I feel a bit sad, you know. I like many, many people at Arsenal and it has been fantastic this last six years at the club," Gilberto told Arsenal TV Online.

"The good thing between us, me and Arsene, is that we have been clear in our conversated to play, which is normal because in the season before I played a big part.

"He told me in case I decide to leave he wouldn't stop me. It was my decision, he wanted me to stay, but at the end I didn't know, to be honest, if I would have a chance to play.

"Then I had this opportunity at Panathinaikos and I felt it was a great one in terms of playing games and a contract.

"I have three years there, when I only had one year left at Arsenal. I considered all these things to get this opportunity.

"It is fantastic because even though I haven't played much this year, at this stage [of my career] I have this opportunity to play in another club.

"It means over the years I have done the job well and people still believe in me."

While youngsters Aaron Ramsey, the Wales Under-21 international, and Samir Nasri have arrived this summer, Wenger is looking to add an experienced head before the transfer window closes next month.

However, the Arsenal manager would not go into specific targets, with wantaway England international Gareth Barry - booed by Aston Villa fans in their friendly at Walsall - said to be on his wishlist, although rated around £18million, which could prove too high a price tag for the Gunners.

"We will need one more body in there," said Wenger, after his side's 1-1 draw with Hungarian side Szombathelyi Haladas.

"If we find a reasonable target then we will do it - but there is no special name on the list.

"We have some time. We have until August 31.

Arsenal will play a Burgenland XI in Ritzing, Austria on Monday night before meeting Stuttgart on July 30 - which could see veteran German keeper Jens Lehmann face his old club.

Wenger insisted it was business as usual concerning Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who has so far sent out mixed messages over his future amid suggestions of a lucrative move away from Emirates Stadium.

He said: "We prepare as a team and we focus on preparing well. Adebayor is like everybody else."

Wenger will get it right - Henry

2008-07-24T16:16:00.003+05:30

Former Arsenal captain Thierry Henry has backed Gunners boss Arsene Wenger to construct a strong team this season, even if some faces will be unfamiliar.

Matthieu Flamini, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva have left, while only Premier League newcomers Samir Nasri and Aaron Ramsey have been signed.

But Henry remains confident Wenger will be able to get a new-look side to gel.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Arsene always does it somehow. And hopefully they will win silverware next season."

The Gunners will have to do it with considerably less experience in their squad.

Brazil midfielder Gilberto, 31, left for Panathinaikos, Hleb, 27, joined Barcelona and Flamini, 24, sealed a switch to AC Milan.

And so far this season, Wenger has only brought in 21-year-old winger Nasri from Marseille and Ramsey, 17, who played in the Championship last season with Cardiff.

But Henry pointed to Wenger's knack of unearthing little-known players and making them stars - the French striker was himself transformed under his compatriot after a torrid time in Italy with Juventus.

Henry added: "I don't know how Arsene does it when he brings in some players who make people think ‘I don't know if they are going to be ok'.

"People wonder if Arsenal are going to do anything.

"But suddenly, like last year, everyone starts raving about how Arsenal are playing and what a great team they are.

"Unfortunately for them they were really close but did not win anything last season.

"Hopefully this time they can bring some silverware back to the Emirates."

Wenger has stated that he will definitely make one more signing in the close season.

And it could be that he will need to buy a striker to replace Emmanuel Adebayor, who still refuses to commit his future to the club amid speculation he will join AC Milan or Barcelona.

You can watch the video of that interview here.

Kolo only has 'mild' malaria strain

2008-07-24T16:03:00.000+05:30

Concerns over the health of Arsenal defender Kolo Toure have eased, following the Ivorian's malaria diagnosis earlier this week.

It is now understood that Toure has contracted a mild strain of the virus and has been able to return to the Gunners' training camp in Austria.

Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that the one player he wants to sign before the new season is a midfielder.

"We will need one more body in there," Wenger acknowledged. "At the moment, we do not have Alex Song who is going to the Olympic Games, Abou Diaby was not here [against Szombathelyi] and nor was Fabregas.

"If we find a reasonable target, then we will do it - but there is no special name on the list. We have some time. We have until August 31."

Nasri 'honoured' to work with Wenger

2008-07-24T16:02:00.002+05:30

The 21-year-old midfielder joined the Gunners earlier this month on a long-term contract following protracted transfer negotiations with Marseille, the club he had represented since he was nine years old.

Nasri also reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid and Roma, but opted for a club with a long-term project in place.

"(Wenger) personifies stability and continuity," Nasri told France Football magazine on Tuesday.

"We know that with him we're going to be working for the long term. I think he's been at Arsenal for 13 years - that says it all.

"To perfect my game I was looking for those kinds of guarantees. I didn't want to leave for a club, however legendary, where everything could change the next day.

"Working under a coach like Arsene Wenger is an honour. I know he'll help me to progress."

As well as interest from Italy, England and Spain, Nasri confirmed French champions Lyon had also tried to sign him.

"Lyon made an approach. I spoke with president (Jean-Michel) Aulas by telephone. But it didn't go much further than that," Nasri added.

"At that point my choice had practically been made. I'd given my word to Arsenal and I couldn't see myself at any French club other than OM."

Wenger - I am in the market for a midfielder

2008-07-24T16:00:00.000+05:30

Arsène Wenger is aiming to bolster his midfield for the new campaign but, as yet, he does not have a specific target in mind.

After the Barnet game on Saturday the Arsenal manager said that he would bring in “one player certainly... maximum of two” before the window closed at the end of August. After the 1-1 draw at Szombatheyli on Tuesday he was more specific about the position but not the person.

“We will need one more body in there,” said Wenger when asked about his midfield. “At the moment we do not have Alex Song who is going to the Olympic games, Abou Diaby was not here tonight and nor was Fabregas.

“If we find a reasonable target then we will do it. But there is no special name on the list.

“We have some time. We have until August 31. We left 11 players back in Austria for this game. They will play in Stuttgart [on July 30].”

Before that, on Monday, Arsenal go to Ritzing to play a Burgenland XI. Arsenal TV Online subscribers will be able to see this game live.

Wenger - Eduardo back to watch team in Emirates Cup

2008-07-24T15:54:00.001+05:30

Arsène Wenger is delighted that Eduardo will be back at Arsenal for the start of August but, while his recovery remains on target, the striker is some way away from first-team action.

The Croatian has been undertaking his rehabilitation in Brazil since the serious injury to his ankle at Birmingham in February 2008. The Club’s initial estimate was that the 25-year-old would be sidelined for nine months and his current progress suggests that target will be met.

He is set to return to England and watch his team-mates in the Emirates Cup on August 2 after which he will be assessed by the medical team before starting his final rehabilitation. Once he has successfully completed this final stage he will return to training with the full squad.

Speaking after the 1-1 draw with Szombathelyi on Tuesday night, Wenger said: “It is difficult to assess. He will be back for the Emirates Cup, at the moment he is in rehabilitation.

“We hoped he would be back earlier but it is very difficult to say. It will be three or four weeks more [until he comes back to England] but I don’t really know yet.”

Szombathelyi Haladas v Arsenal

2008-07-24T07:33:00.004+05:30

Szombathelyi Haladas 1-1 Arsenal

Szombathelyi Haladas 1-0 Kenesei
MediaFire

Arsenal 1-1 Walcott
MediaFire

Extras

Denilson Hits the Bar
Mediafire

Clichy Free-Kick
Mediafire

First Half Highlights here

Credit:Arsenalist and Iker91

Theo Walcott was on target for Arsenal as the Gunners drew 1-1 with Hungarian outfit Szombathelyi Haladas at the Haladas VSE Stadium.

The England international rescued Arsene Wenger's men from a surprise defeat when he cancelled out a Krisztian Kenesei opener three minutes before the interval.

The hosts had taken a deserved lead in the 25th minute when former Hungary international striker Kenesei broke through a static Gunners defence and chipped delicately over the on-rushing Manuel Almunia.

Justin Hoyte believed he had hooked the ball clear on the line but he was over-ruled by the assistant referee.

To rub salt into the defender's wounds, he then sliced a volley over from five yards just minutes later with the goal gaping.

But Arsenal equalised in the 42nd minute when Walcott - urged by manager Wenger to stake his claim for a regular place this season - rifled the ball home.

The former Southampton forward collected Nicklas Bendtner's short pass on the edge of the area and slammed a low shot across the goalkeeper and in off the far post.

An inexperienced Arsenal team struggled to create many clear-cut chances after the break, although Gael Clichy fired a free-kick narrowly over with 12 minutes remaining.

Toure contracts malaria

2008-07-24T07:31:00.001+05:30

Arsenal defender Kolo Toure has contracted a mild strain of malaria, but is not expected to miss the start of the new Premier League season.

It is thought Toure, 27, contracted the disease while on holiday in his native Ivory Coast.

Reports on Wednesday stated that Toure was diagnosed with malaria during Arsenal's pre-season tour of Austria and Hungary.

Toure is now receiving treatment but should be fit for The Gunners' opening game of the new season against West Bromwich Albion on 16th August.

Arsenal in Austria

2008-07-22T21:38:00.000+05:30

The Club's official photographer sent back these exclusive pictures from Arsenal's European base:

Wenger issues his instructions

Senderos, Van Persie and Fabianski

Robin and Philippe stretch their limbs

The players go through their exercises

New signing Samir Nasri joins in

The Frenchman settles in at Arsenal

Theo Walcott begins another drill

Carlos Vela holds off Justin Hoyte

Denilson breaks clear of a challenge

Van Persie waves to the watching fans

Nasri explains long transfer

2008-07-22T21:35:00.000+05:30

Samir Nasri has insisted there was nothing sinister behind the delay in his transfer from Marseille to Arsenal.

The Gunners moved for the playmaker at the start of the summer, but it was not until July that he finally sealed his transfer.

The delay had led to suggestions that Arsenal could miss out on the 21-year-old, but he claims he had given his word to Arsene Wenger before Euro 2008.

Lyon came in for Nasri, but he has insisted there was never any chance of him playing for any other French side than Marseille.

“Lyon approached me,” Nasri told France-Football. “I spoke with chairman [Jean-Michel] Aulas on the phone. But this contact did not go forward. At this moment I had almost already made up my mind.

“I had given my word to Arsene Wenger. And I couldn’t see myself moving to a different French club than Marseille!

“I never doubted both clubs would find an agreement. There has been nonsense rumours. Both clubs just had to find an agreement to make my transfer official in L’OM’s 2008/2009 balance sheet.

“I already knew I was an Arsenal player before Euros. I passed the medical when I returned from Switzerland then we decided to make my transfer official for my return from holiday in mid-July.

“In my mind I was liberated.”

Nasri claims Arsenal’s attacking style seduced him, and he has revealed he will replace Alexander Hleb on the left wing.

“I am joining a club that plays some of the best football in Europe,” he said. “I was charmed when I watched Arsenal’s games in the Champions League.

“They achieved a tremendous first half to the season. To me England is the ideal destination and Arsenal are the perfect club!

“Arsene Wenger told me he wants to play me on a wing. But there are so many movements in the team that I’ll have the possibility to switch position.

“I was used to playing on the left wing with the youth teams. I don’t mind. Friendlies are made to find your mark.

“My mother chose my number 8. It’s a gift to make her happy. She’s not especially into football but as I’m leaving home for the first time I wanted to give her a twinkling of an eye.”

Sagna - I will be fully fit in time for the start of the season

2008-07-21T21:24:00.001+05:30

Bacary Sagna expects to be fully fit and raring to go when the season gets underway in less than four weeks time.

The Frenchman completed 45 minutes in the Gunners’ pre-season friendly win at Barnet on Saturday, his first appearance since an ankle injury against Chelsea bought his superb debut campaign to a shuddering halt in March.

Despite the weekend run-out, Sagna remains cautious but two weeks of pre-season training has already bought about a sharp rise in fitness. He expects that trend to continue.

“I still feel my ankle a little bit, but I can run and play football normally and I am confident it will improve every day,” Sagna told Arsenal.com. “It was good to play on Saturday and it is a nice feeling to be back in front of the fans. I haven’t played since March so I was pleased to be with my team-mates as well.

“I feel better now and I hope that I can feel better and better with every new game.

“The last couple of weeks have been hard because it is the first time since my injury that I have been in training. I needed to find my performance level again and be prepared to give more than I have before. I do think, though, that I will be fit for the start of the season.”

So fitness isn’t a worry, but is he worried he may suffer a bout of the infamous ‘second-season syndrome’?

“No not at all," he replied. "I am not even thinking about that as a possibility. I only want to focus on my own game, perform for Arsenal and see what the season brings. Hopefully it will be some cups.”

Wenger - Walcott must target a starting berth

2008-07-21T21:23:00.000+05:30

Last season, Theo Walcott showed Arsenal fans the first real signs of his massive potential. This season, Arsène Wenger will ask the 19-year-old to barge his way into the first-team on a regular basis. The Frenchman freely admits he does not yet know whether Walcott will play up front or on the wing but, he argues, there are “no limitations” on how the England international can develop.

“Theo made a step forward last season and you expect him to improve again,” said Wenger after the 2-1 win over Barnet on Saturday. “The target last year was for him to play 15 to 20 games and show quality. The target this year is to become a regular player.

“What position he’ll play in I don’t know. At the moment he looks more at ease wide than as a central striker. But we have to wait through the preparation games and see how ready he will be. The Barnet game was not a good opportunity to judge him.”

That is undeniably true. On Saturday, Walcott started up front alongside Nicklas Bendtner as Wenger fielded a more established XI in the first half and a younger one after the break. It appeared to be an “easing in” exercise for a rusty first-team squad. Arsenal trailed the League Two side at half time and had to rely on goals from Jay Simpson and Nacer Barazite to secure a comeback victory.

Afterwards Wenger spoke about the issues surrounding Walcott as a striker or a wide midfielder.

“He is not really a link player he is more a runner so you need to find a link player who can play close to him,” said Wenger. “It depends on who he plays with and you need to find the right combination. But he can play wide, right, left, central.

“Still I expect a lot from him, this season. At 19 years of age you have to improve. But how much better I don’t really know. You certainly don’t put any limitations on that."

Carlos Vela's Profile

2008-07-21T08:49:00.000+05:30

Name: Carlos Alberto Vela Garrido
Club: Arsenal FC
D.O.B: March 1st 1989
Height: 1.78m
Weight: 72kg
Position: Striker, Second Striker

After spending the last couple of seasons on loan in Spain, young Mexican starlet Carlos Vela can finally be unleashed in the Premier League after being granted a work permit, which cleared him to play for Arsenal for the coming season. The 19-year-old striker’s route to North London has not been without fault and he has been waiting a long time for his chance in the Gunners’ first team, and the Arsenal faithful will certainly be hoping he can take it.

Starting Out

Carlos Vela was born on March 1st 1989, in Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico. He is the younger brother of current Cruz Azul striker Alejandro Vela. Carlos learned a great deal from his brother as a youngster, and followed him into football by signing for Chivas de Guadalajara when he was just 12 years old.

Having never played a first team game for the club, Vela was thrust into the spotlight after being selected for Mexico’s U-17 World Championship squad to play in Peru along with fellow rising star Giovani Dos Santos. This tournament proved to be a life changing one for Vela, as he ended up with the Golden Boot award after his five goals helped Mexico to lift the trophy, beating Brazil 3-0 in the final, in which Vela scored. This tournament showed the world Vela’s raw pace and clinical finishing, and in less than a month, the young striker had become a name for the future.

Vela has always been known as being very close to his family, and as the World Championship final fell on the same day as his father’s birthday, the young forward decided to dedicate his golden boot award to his father, giving it to him as a present.

After the World Championships, his club Guadalajara decided to offer him a professional contract, and as a condition of the contract, Vela insisted that his family were relocated from the then-storm-stricken town of Cancun. Jorge Vergara, President of the club, agreed, and Vela signed on professional terms with the Jalisco based side.

After some excellent performances in the Guadalajara reserves, Vela began attracting massive interest from a host of European giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Inter Milan. Arsenal were also on the trail of the young Mexican marksman, and in November 2005, the London based club faxed through an offer of £2.5m, which the Mexican side duly accepted. After passing a medical and agreeing a five year contract with the Gunners, all Vela and Arsenal had to do now was obtain a work permit for him, however, this would not prove so easy. His application for a work permit was rejected as he had not reached the required number of games for the national side, and his application for an ‘Exceptional Talent’ visa was also rejected by the Home Office. The Gunners appealed the decision, but in vain and finally agreed that Vela should be taken on loan by a Spanish club, until he had EU citizenship.

El Camino

Arsenal had recently formed a link with then Spanish La Liga side Celta de Vigo, and Vela was sent on loan there for the remainder of the 2005/2006 season. He failed to make much impact during his time with Celta and did not play a single game in the five months he was there. Celta planned to take Vela on loan again for the following season, but pulled out of the deal as they were restricted by a law on non Spanish players. The loan and link with Celta was cancelled and Arsenal looked for another club to take him on loan for the 2006/2007 season.

UD Salamanca of the Spanish Segunda were chosen and after a very brief settling in period, Vela became a regular in the side, scoring 8 goals in 31 games, and becoming a fan favourite in the process.

Even after the year and a half Vela had spent in Spain, EU regulations and British Work Permit laws still restricted him from becoming an EU citizen.

After his impressive displays in the Spanish Segunda playing for Salamanca, Vela had attracted massive interest from some La Liga sides including UD Levante, Real Betis, Osasuna and UD Almeria, who all made loan offers for the youngster.

In the summer of 2007, Vela agreed a one year loan switch to La Liga side Osasuna, and had an option of a one year extension to the deal, but no permanent deal was put in place, as Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger seemed desperate to keep hold of the talent he knew Vela had.

The season started well for Vela with Osasuna, with his impressive displays earning praise from the Spanish media, and this media attention was increased when he scored his first goal for the club against Real Betis in a La Liga league game in October 2007. The goal displayed Vela’s strengths as he played a neat one two with a teammate and with a smart, powerful finish with his educated left foot into the top corner of the goal, Vela put his side 2-0 up in an eventual 3-0 win. The young Mexican had begun to make his talent known on the big stage.

He followed that goal up with smart finishes against Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid, showing that he had skill and patience to match his raw talent and pace. He finished the season with Osasuna with 3 goals in a very healthy 33 appearances for the club, in turn giving him invaluable experience in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.

Lessons Learned

Speaking to Arsenal’s club website in the summer of 2008, Vela reflected on a successful learning curve in Spain, saying, “It has helped me, first of all it taught me what it was like being away from your home country - that helped me grow up as a person and as a player. I think that the Spanish and English style of football is the best in the world. I think also that playing against the best players in the world can only help me grow as a player. The whole experience was a big lesson for me. I think that I achieved the targets I had there because I had more minutes on the pitch and gained more experience.”

His first team international career was also kick started with his displays in Spain’s top division, and he made his debut for the Mexican first team in September 2007 in a friendly against Brazil. His first international goal came against Guatemala in a friendly in Los Angeles a month later. Since then, Vela has made 5 further appearances for his country, and now has a goal scoring tally of 4 goals in 7 games, an impressive statistic for someone still learning his trade on the big stage.

Vela returned to Arsenal in the summer of 2008, and has started pre season training with the first team, after finally being granted a work permit on the 22nd May. Arsene Wenger has likened Vela’s playing style to that of current Arsenal star Eduardo, and commented on the Mexican’s talents by telling the club’s website, “He has played the whole season at Osasuna on the left wing and he had to work hard there, but for me it is not his position, he is a central striker, an Eduardo type. He is a great young player.”

Vela also spoke to the club’s website, expressing his delight at finally being able to play for the club by saying, “I am very proud to finally be here and I am truly very happy, I have been waiting three years for this moment and now I am here I will work very hard to earn my place in the first-team and I hope to be at this club for a very long time.”

Arsene Wenger has publically said that Vela, who has been given the number 12 shirt, will be part of his first team plans for the coming season, and Gunners’ fans will hope he can reach the high standards set by the likes of Thierry Henry, Ian Wright and Dennis Bergkamp, and eventually go on to achieve legendary status at the club.

Wenger calm on free-spending rivals

2008-07-21T08:48:00.000+05:30

Arsene Wenger insists he is unconcerned that his likely title rivals for the coming season look ready to spend huge amounts again this summer.

Arsenal finished within four points of Chelsea and Manchester United last season but while it has been another frugal summer in North London - with the sales of Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva financing moves for Samir Nasri and Aaron Ramsey - both Sir Alex Ferguson and Luiz Felipe Scolari are plotting multi-million pound signings.

It is now no secret that United are looking to sign Dimitar Berbatov in a deal that could reportedly reach £28 million, while Chelsea have utilised Roman Abramovich's riches to sign Jose Bosingwa and Deco, with Brazil stars Kaka and Robinho also targets that could fetch a world record transfer fee.

It is a familiar situation that Wenger finds himself in, as the move to Emirates Stadium has caused the North London club to be more reserved in the transfer market in recent seasons, and despite suggestions that The Gunners are in danger of slipping away from both Chelsea and United, the Frenchman is unconcerned by the current transfer climate.

"No it doesn't bother me too much," said Wenger.

"I know at the start of the transfer market Chelsea can buy who they want, and I cannot stop that."

Arsenal could be forced into the market for a striker if Emmanuel Adebayor joins Barcelona though, as the Togo international has seen his future at Emirates Stadium plunged into doubt by a contractual dispute.

Adebayor has failed to endear himself to Gunners fans by asking for a similar wage to former captain and all-time record goalscorer Thierry Henry after his success in scoring 30 goals for the club last season.

Saturday's pre-season friendly against Barnet saw some pointed songs directed at the striker by the travelling support but his manager is refusing to judge Adebayor after reputed quotes from the player and his agent regarding his situation this summer.

Wenger - who claims he has not attached an asking price to last season's top scorer - has urged the former Monaco man to respect the club's wage structure as the uncertainty over his future continues.

"No [we have not put a price on his head], at any price if you come in tomorrow with £400 million then I will think about it! I do not want to go into any speculation, I want to keep Adebayor," Wenger added.

"I don't know what has gone on because a lot has been denied, it is very difficult to know what is true and what is said and not said, he denies 99 percent of it.

"I have never met many people who have said 'I do not have a case for a new contract'! We are always ready and I fight always to get the players the maximum wages but you have to respect the wage structure."

England's dream teen

2008-07-20T16:54:00.001+05:30

As effortlessly as he plays his football, Theo Walcott provides a little reassurance. Ronaldo, Dwain Chambers and the England rugby players in New Zealand have supplied the feel-bad headlines of the summer. An afternoon with Walcott casts a rather different light on the life of the professional sportsman.

For a start, he pulls up in front of the Hertfordshire home that he shares with his parents in a VW Golf, which in the ostentatious world of the Premier League footballer represents ludicrous restraint. He has returned from a gruelling double session at Arsenal's training ground, but immediately busies himself fetching drinks, asking me and the photographer how we are, were our journeys troublesome, do we mind which room we sit in. He runs upstairs to change and is back down in seconds. He is not the sort to spend 20 minutes doing his hair or texting his mates and, in the three hours we spend with him, he does not use his phone once. For a footballer, it is a little bit weird. 'What did you expect?' he asks, then stops. He knows the answer to that question.

Walcott is not the stereotypical footballer. He seems weary of those recent headlines - court cases, slaves, celebrity girlfriends - that have made footballers such an easy target for criticism. He sighs. 'Everyone is different, but the stuff you see some footballers doing, cheating on their girlfriends and stuff, I just think, "Why?" Why have a girlfriend, or a wife and kids if you're going to cheat?' he says. 'And drinking; when you've finished your career you can have a drink - obviously not become an alcoholic...' He trails off. 'I don't drink at all. I never have done. Back at school people would take the mick out of me for not drinking at parties and stuff, but that didn't bother me. It's only a short career and the way you are off the pitch makes a big difference.'

As we talk, the European under-19 championship is on television. England are playing the Czech Republic. Walcott glances up occasionally to check the score. 'It's weird to think I could be playing for them right now,' he says. Instead he recently made his second senior appearance for England, against Trinidad & Tobago, following a successful spell with the under-21s and a string of impressive performances for Arsenal. 'It feels like I've been around for ages,' he says, 'but I'm still only 19.'

Perhaps it is his age, but there is something refreshing about Walcott. He is unguarded in his conversation, but too smart to be drawn into saying anything silly.

Apart from that England friendly in the Caribbean in June, he has had a quiet summer. 'It's been nice to get away from football and do other things. I don't even know who's signed for who, I'm just not that interested. I don't watch that - what's it called?' Sky Sports News? 'Yeah. I'm not interested.'

What does he think of Cristiano Ronaldo's 'slavery' comments? He laughs. 'Not bad, is it, being a slave on that much a year? Anyone would do that, I can guarantee.'

Walcott says a life in football is 'a dream come true' - which happens to be the name of a charity he supports - so why worry about money and contracts? He never has done. The charity arranges 'dreams' for terminally ill children, such as snow on Christmas Day, or waking up to find cows in your back garden.

In Walcott's case the dream was more a nightmare, a swarm of paparazzi after he became the most expensive 16-year-old English footballer at £9.1m, the figure that Arsenal and Southampton finally settled on earlier this year, following his move in January 2006. He did not make an Arsenal appearance that season, but became, at 17 years and three months, the youngest England player to be selected for a senior squad when Sven-Goran Eriksson picked him for the World Cup five months after that transfer. He soon became the youngest player to have scored for the under-21s, when he played against Moldova as a 17-year-old in August 2006.

The first time I saw Walcott play he was 16 and making only his second full appearance for Southampton, against Millwall at The Den. Four days earlier he had scored on his full debut away at Leeds and already there was a ripple of excitement around him.

In the press box the whisper was, 'This kid is going places'. From the whistle, Walcott did not disappoint. The afternoon was meant to be all about Dennis Wise - on his first return to The Den since joining Southampton - but as Wisey sat on the bench, Walcott stole the show. His darting runs terrified the Millwall defence. Their only response was to floor him. Despite this attention, Walcott put Southampton ahead after 18 minutes, his second senior goal in as many starts. Walcott says he has a bad memory, but he has not forgotten that day.

'I remember getting kicked about,' he says, grinning. 'I've actually got a scar on my knee from it. Someone put a hole in my knee, I can't remember the name of the guy who did it but he had no teeth.' He laughs at the stereotype. 'Yeah, proper Millwall.'

It is staggering how much life has changed for Walcott in three years. From Championship to Premier League aged 16, from a modest home to riches - although even now his home seems free from showiness or expensive James Bond-style gadgets.

At the time of the 2006 World Cup, a major breakthrough for Walcott that became mainstream news, his family could not afford to stay in the same hotel as the other England footballers' families. 'We didn't have the funds to stay there, and anyway the prices were ridiculous,' he says. 'To be honest it was nice to be out of the way. The World Cup was an experience for my family as well as me. Mel [girlfriend Melanie Slade] had to deal with the whole Wag culture - I hate that term, Wag.'

The media went crazy for them. How was it for Walcott? 'I was just a little 16-year-old running around on the pitch like a mad person, trying to impress. I didn't take any notice of anything else. You can't, people might say something you don't want to hear, or something really good that might go to your head and then your football goes downhill.'

As quickly as the excitement over Eriksson's young selection grew, it evaporated. Walcott did not play in the World Cup and resentment set in. In his autobiography, Steven Gerrard said that Walcott 'had no right to be there'. Headlines buzzed. Walcott was and remains unfazed. 'I didn't expect the call-up. I was only just taking my driving test at the time. Everyone always says, "He shouldn't have been there, blah blah blah," but it doesn't bother me. I didn't pick the team so don't judge me. It's not my fault.

'There was a lot of pressure straight away. With most young players their development is not on the telly or spoken about, but with me it was different. The England call-up didn't help my development, because everyone was expecting something straight away. In the end it was a good experience, but at the time it was like, "Whoa".'

He says he was starstruck when first picked by England. A keen Liverpool fan, he remembers showing Michael Owen - his boyhood hero - a photo of them together when Walcott had only just started playing football. 'When that photo was taken I was 11. When I showed it to Michael I was 17 - six years later. He couldn't believe it. The whole thing was so weird.'

When Steve McClaren took over from Eriksson and called to say that Walcott would be starting in the under-21s, he felt much happier. 'I was only 17 then anyway, so going into the 21s even then was a big honour. Doing well for them and scoring goals got my confidence back and people were just judging me on that.' Walcott missed the European under-21 championship finals in 2007 through a dislocated shoulder, but his contribution in getting the team there did not go unnoticed. Slowly, Walcott's reputation was being rebuilt.

When Fabio Capello named him for the Trinidad friendly, it completed that circle and Walcott felt the difference in the reception from the other players this time around.

'Whereas before I hadn't played in the Premier League, some players were probably thinking, "What's he doing here? He doesn't deserve to be here", now I'd been doing well,' he says. 'The players made me feel welcome; they trusted me on the ball, which was nice. I felt more part of the squad.'

Eriksson's World Cup gamble was not entirely wasted, though. While England played out their triumphs and woes, on and off the pitch, Walcott was busy making a video diary of his experiences.

'They gave us cameras, so I decided to record something every day about how I was feeling. Initially, it was to keep myself entertained and to show the family, but it's quite a handy thing to keep hold of,' he says. 'I haven't shown it to anyone yet... but I'm quite clever when it comes to those things.'

With the attention surrounding Walcott's emergence, there was a period when every newspaper seemed to carry photos of the young star and his girlfriend. They looked destined to follow the celebrity route. They graced the front of Hello!, appeared on the ITV gameshow Mr and Mrs, and Mel posed for the cover of men's magazine Arena. Walcott's father, Don, appeared on Celebrity Ready Steady Cook - in a face-off with Andy Murray's mum, Judy - and the whole family starred in a cameo role in the film Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

Walcott survived the experience. He laughs about the Hello! photos. 'That was so weird,' he says. 'We look fake! It's the airbrushing. Actually we had some other ones done of us recently, no airbrushing, just us... except that Mel's ear was sticking out in one of them so she asked to have it covered up with some hair...' He looks at me quizzically. 'Girls are weird, aren't they?'

Together the two have learnt to deal with the paparazzi. They try to laugh it off. 'They want to see something go wrong, that's the thing. They want to see a reaction, and that's fine because we don't give them any. We had one who thought Mel was pregnant, it was so stupid. They were actually going to release it in the newspaper. I was like, "OK, go on if you want." I do not have a clue where they got that from. I think they were just trying to make us lose it.'

Despite all the things that make his life unusual, Walcott does not seem far removed from an average teenager. Chatting in the kitchen, he and Mel get excited about a new milkshake chain where you can get 'any flavour of milkshake you want!' Melanie is due to start a university degree in physiotherapy this year. Walcott received an art set for his birthday. 'What do you get a footballer?' he asks. In fact he loves art. He has a C in GCSE art and would like to open a gallery one day. He likes hanging out with his best friend, the Southampton midfielder Jake Thomson.

'We still go into Reading and get haircuts like we used to. We've been going to the same place for eight years. It's a black hairdressers, and I remember we took Gareth Bale with us once. They asked him if he wanted a haircut, he was like "Naaa", which was really funny. Jake and I like to make a day of it. We go to Nando's and then have a cinema day - watch two films back to back, really close to the screen until our eyes are funny.'

Outside the window, one of Walcott's dogs - they have four - starts barking. 'That's Sanchez,' he says. 'He's a pug crossed with a shih-tzu and he's always dominating the other dogs. We've had the dog whisperer round and he says Sanchez has got height issues, that's why he has to bark at everyone. One of the other dogs had his bollocks cut off the other day. Bless him, he's got one of those lampshades on his head.'

Walcott points at his Golf. 'I love that car,' he says. 'It's small and zippy. It reminds me of myself. Plus it's the R32 model, which is also my first squad number, although that's changed now.' He has just been handed the No 14 shirt, last worn by Thierry Henry. 'It's just a number in the end,' he says. 'It's just a number on the back of a shirt, that's what I think, anyway.'

It is quite some mantle, although Walcott has long been accustomed to sharing the insignia of a global sports star. He shares his initials with Tiger Woods - also his school nickname - and is often mistaken for Lewis Hamilton. Mel later confirms that he and Hamilton have exactly the same measurements. 'That's what Hugo Boss told me when I phoned up to get his suit,' she says. Instinctively you cannot help but wonder how long it will be before Walcott's achievements match those luminaries in earnest.

Where does Walcott himself think he is heading? 'In five years' time I want to be a regular for Arsenal and England, scoring 20 goals a season. That's a lot, but you have to set your sights high. I want to win the Premier League, the Champions League and the FA Cup. That's the main thing, medals. People go on about money and contracts, but for me it's always going to be about the football.'

Source:Guardian

Wenger expects Adebayor stay

2008-07-19T22:42:00.000+05:30

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger expects star striker Emmanuel Adebayor to still be a Gunner for the start of the new season.

Adebayor has been strongly linked with a summer move to Milan, although Arsenal have always maintained their desire to retain the Togo international.

Speaking after Arsenal's 2-1 pre-season friendly win over Barnet, Wenger stated he expects Adebayor to make his first appearance at training.

"Adebayor is under contract," Wenger told Sky Sports News. "We expect him to turn up on Monday and practice with us."

"Of course," he replied when asked if Adebayor will be with Arsenal at the start of the new Premier League season.

Wenger has lost Alexander Hleb although the French tactician was anticipating his exit to Barcelona by admitting they planned on signing Samir Nasri as his replacement some time ago.

"He had an opportunity to leave. He's done three years. I'd loved him to stay but on the other hand he was in a strong position," he continued.

"We had to accept that and we anticipated that by bringing Nasri in. So that was planned for a long, long time ago."

Arsenal have snapped up Aaron Ramsey from Cardiff this summer and Wenger has confirmed he is looking to add to his squad prior to the transfer window closing.

He said: "Yes you can expect signings. I don't know where and how many, but we're in the market. If there's a good opportunity we'll take it."

Barnet V Arsenal 19th July Friendly

2008-07-19T21:38:00.009+05:30

Barnet 1-2 Arsenal

1-0 Gillet (15') View/ Download

1-1 Simpson (63') View/ Download

1-2 Barazite (74') View/ Download

Match Highlights here

Credit: arsenalist and Iker91

It was a match of two half's. In the 1st Half, it was the Arsenal Reserves(except a few) v Barnet and in the 2nd Half, it was Arsenal U-18 v Barnet.

It was the U-18 side that won the game for us. Jack Wilshere was the Hero for the team. He created the goal for Jay Simpson and started the move that gave us the 2nd goal(Barazite scored).He should be given the the man of the match for his impact.

First half was boring, Ramsey looked lively, passing precisely and making some in roads into Barnet's defense.He looks like a really good buy. Sagna was solid as ever. but the rest looked a bit out of sorts.They need to get match practice and will be getting it in the weeks to come.

Barnet scored from a free-kick. Almunia cannot be blamed for that. It was a well taken free-kick.

Second Half saw us make 11 changes to the side that started. Wenger replaced the reserves with the U-18 team. The kids vindicated Wenger's view on youngsters. They played brilliant football at times. Its astonishing to see even the U-18 players play similar to the way seniors team.Jack Wilshere has a very good left foot and made good use of it. The assist to the first goal and the pass to start the move for the 2nd goal was breathtaking. He looks like the one to watch out in the coming season.

Jay Simpson scored the first goal and Barazite slotted the 2nd goal giving us the winning start to the season.It always pays to start the season on the winning note.

We cannot read too much into the game as it was the first game after a long break and players were not match fit. Overall it was a good game to get some practice and build on for the new season.

Match Reports

Arsenal.com

Skysports

Setanta

Wenger hints at key Ramsey role

2008-07-19T16:21:00.002+05:30

Arsenal Wenger has hinted that Wales Under-21 international Aaron Ramsey could play a key role in Arsenal's central midfield.

Winger Ramsey, 17, who is set to make his debut against Barnet on Saturday, made the £5m switch to the Emirates from Cardiff last month.

And with Mathieu Flamini, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva leaving, there is a need for a midfielder.

"I think in the future he will be a central midfielder," said Wenger.

"How is down to him and down to us on how well we work with him.

"In my mind though there are no restrictions on his development because he has played a lot already."

Wenger also told the club's official magazine, Arsenal, of his joy at capturing the Caerphilly-born youngster who attracted interest from a host of Premier League clubs.

"We watched him throughout the whole season," said Wenger.

"We were always on the case, but unfortunately we weren't the only ones because Liverpool, Man United and Everton were strongly behind the case.

"It was a big satisfaction for us that we were able to beat these teams to signing him."

Rosicky to miss season's opener

2008-07-19T16:16:00.000+05:30

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky has confirmed he will miss the start of the new season, with his slated return to the first team not until September.

The Czech Republic star missed the second half of last season because of various ailments.

He underwent a knee operation in May which precluded his involvement at Euro 2008 but he had originally hoped to be fit in time for the kick off of the new season.

However West Bromwich Albion on August 16 is a bridge too far for the 27-year-old.

“I know I’ll miss the start of the club season,” Rosicky told the Czech newspaper Sport.

“According to plans I should be back on the field in September.”

Clichy: We've got our very own Ronaldo

2008-07-18T21:36:00.000+05:30

Gael Clichy has compared Arsenal team-mate Robin van Persie to none other than Cristiano Ronaldo, whilst suggesting summer recruit Samir Nasri could, in the future, be mentioned in the same breath as a certain Zinadine Zidane.

A succession of injuries have ensured that Van Persie has endured a truncated last couple of years at Emirates Stadium that have put the brakes on his Premier League progress.

However, he was fit enough to gain some significant game-time with Holland at Euro 2008 and, Clichy feels, could now be ready to start the new campaign with a bang.

“He was unlucky to be injured last season so it was good to see him play game after game,” said the Frenchman.

“It was a big blow to lose him and I'm certain that his return is going to be a great bonus for us this season.

“At Arsenal we have lots of players who can make a difference, but Robin is a player like Cristiano Ronaldo, the kind who, even if they aren't playing fantastically, can change things from one free-kick, corner or pass.”

Nasri finally completed his move to North London from Marseille this week and Clichy is tipping his fellow countryman to make sizeable waves in England.

“He is certainly a great player but we have to judge him over the coming years and then afterward we can talk about Zidane or whoever,” he added.

Arsenal sign Francis Coquelin

2008-07-18T21:34:00.000+05:30

Arsene Wenger has signed his third player of the summer and his second French midfielder with Francis Coquelin joining from third division side Laval.

The 17-year-old experienced a promising trial with The Gunners last season and was expected to put pen to paper in the last two months.

Coquelin reportedly passed a medical in North London in May but his move has just been officially announced on the club’s official website.

Laval revealed in June that the player, who did not sign a first professional contract with Les Tangos, was allowed to move on as a free agent.

As a consequence, Arsenal are believed to have signed the Frenchman without paying any fee.

“Arsenal have signed French midfield player Francis Coquelin on professional terms,” read a statement on the club’s official website.

Werder Bremen youngster Amaury Bischoff could be The Gunners’ next signing.

Wenger wary of spending big

2008-07-18T17:50:00.001+05:30

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is wary of spending the transfer money he has at his disposal.

Wenger has been linked with big-money moves for Aston Villa's Gareth Barry and Liverpool's Xabi Alonso following the recent departures of Gilberto Silva and Alexander Hleb.

The Frenchman has already brought in Aaron Ramsey and Samir Nasri, but is cautious over limiting the chances of the current youngsters at the club by recruiting experience.

He told the club's official website: "Of course I am in a position where I can spend the money.
Wage structure

"But every time we have done such a great job with the young players that you are concerned 'do we kill a young player or not by bringing another player in?'

"It is a very sensitive subject which is not specially linked with money."

Wenger went on to reject criticism over the club's unwillingness to disrupt their wage structure, amid rumours that Barcelona target Emmanuel Adebayor has demanded improved contract terms.

"There is a lot of talk in the press, but we have always managed at this club by balancing the budget," he said.

"We should not be criticised for that and should be respected for that."

I’m the one now, insists Denilson

2008-07-18T16:29:00.003+05:30

DENILSON is a Gunners midfielder happy to buck the outgoing trend by committing his future to the club and winning trophies for Arsenal this season. The Brazilian admits this is a big year for him, and no wonder.

Fresh opportunities are presenting themselves almost daily, with the departures of midfield trio Mathieu Flamini (AC Milan), Alexander Hleb (Barcelona) and Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos).

Denilson, 20, rejected a chance to join the high-profile exits, instead aiming to make a sustained first-team impact in his third season at The Emirates. “I’m just focused on Arsenal, but I know some other clubs were looking at me,” said Denilson. “Last year I heard Barcelona wanted to buy me, but I really like it at Arsenal. “For me this is the best team, it’s where I want to be. I want to show what I can do for Arsenal.”

Denilson made 23 appearances last term, but just four Premier League starts. However, after 42 outings since his £3.4million signing from Sao Paulo in August 2006, he feels now is his time. He said: “This season is very important for me. I want to be involved in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup. I need to play, every player needs to play, and I believe in myself. I know I can do it.”

Fully refreshed after a summer family break in Brazil, Denilson is now back in the groove with daily double training sessions. “I am thinking only about working hard, training hard every day, and getting ready for the season,” he said. “I am thinking about my immediate future, and I know this is a big season for me. I know that Arsenal can win trophies this season for sure.”

Although Arsenal have made some midfield acquisitions in Aaron Ramsey from Cardiff and Samir Nasri from Marseille, Denilson has every chance of forming a new hub of the Gunners engine-room alongside Cesc Fabregas, who with Spain, now has a European Championship winning medal to his name. Denilson said: “Yes, I watched the Euro 2008 final – it was fantastic. I was very pleased for Cesc. I was proud of him because he played fantastically.”

Although yet to feature for the senior Brazil side, Denilson has played for his country at every age group from Under-15 to Under-20, captaining the Under-17s to the final of the 2005 world championship. While Denilson, who played alongside Manchester United’s Anderson, was starting out in the Brazil youth teams, the senior side were winning the 2002 World Cup under then manager Luiz Felipe Scolari. And Denilson is looking forward to coming up against Chelsea’s new boss and fellow countryman in club action next season.

Denilson said: “He’s a very experienced coach, one of the best in the world. He’s a big man, and a father figure, similar to Arsene Wenger. He will joke with the players, get on well with them, but is also a tough guy. “He can be strict but he is well respected. Gilberto has spoken to me about him, about his style, and it will be interesting to see him at Chelsea.”

Football, and midfield play in particular, runs in the Denilson family. His father was a professional in the Brazilian league, playing in central midfield, and two of Denilson’s three brothers are also beginning to make a name back home.

Summer sales spell danger for Gunners

2008-07-17T23:37:00.000+05:30

Written by Tom Adams

Leaving Kolo Toure and Gael Clichy as the only remaining Invincibles, Gilberto departs with medals around his neck, head held high, honour intact and legacy assured. Hleb, in contrast, has snuck out the back door, seeking solace from London’s hustle and bustle in a small provincial town called Barcelona – apparently it’s somewhere in North East Spain…

Hleb's all-too eager badge-kissing at his new club and Gilberto's journey to Panathinaikos have followed the departures of Jens Lehmann and Mathieu Flamini since May. The arrivals? 17-year-old Aaron Ramsey and Marseille’s young playmaker Samir Nasri.

Talented players no doubt, but there is no guarantee they will perform consistently in The Premier League next season and that must be a real worry for a squad that looks more threadbare than at any other time in Arsene Wenger's long and glorious reign.

It is not for a mere mortal to question the Frenchman's blueprint in North London - the trophies he has delivered and the style in which he has done so earn him that distinction - but what is apparent is that The Gunners are lacking those key ingredients of experience and depth in several key positions at present.

With Hleb leaving, the injury-prone Tomas Rosicky is Arsenal’s only quality winger with any real experience. Theo Walcott and Carlos Vela are too young to guarantee sustained excellence, Eboue too poor to even guarantee an accurate shot or cross.

Arsenal fans will draw comfort from the fact that their win percentage and points per games ratio is superior for matches where Hleb has been absent in the past three seasons, but he improved immeasurably last year and enjoyed a good understanding with Cesc Fabregas as he grew into his playmaker’s role.

The holes are apparent in the centre of midfield too. Flamini’s departure was unavoidable but Gilberto’s exit looks somewhat unnecessary and risky. What better mentor could there be for an Abou Diaby or Alexandre Song, should Wenger feel the need to promote from within?

Gilberto, it is easy to forget, is only 31, and while his performances were noticeably lacklustre last season, he was superb in 2006-2007 when injury restricted Thierry Henry to a bit-part role. Indeed, the tale of another 31-year-old, Marcos Senna, should be a cautionary one for Wenger as the Spain midfielder shrugged off his critics to deliver a stunning campaign in Euro 2008.

Arsenal's first choice centre-back pairing of William Gallas and Kolo Toure is certainly impressive enough, but it is what comes next that raises concern. Philippe Senderos, Johan Djourou and possibly Song do not inspire confidence yet and contrast poorly to the club's likely title rivals.

Chelsea have John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, Alex and Tal Ben Haim, Liverpool boast Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger, Sami Hyypia and Martin Skrtel, Manchester United have Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Mikael Silvestre, Wes Brown and John O'Shea. All superior options.

Emmanuel Adebayor's future is still very much up in the air and if the Togolese star leaves as well, then he must also be replaced in what is rapidly becoming a very significant summer for the club. If he does go, then Wenger's shopping list should include one central defender, a holding midfielder, a winger and a striker.

There is still plenty of time before the end of August of course and links to players such as Gareth Barry, Roque Santa Cruz and Xabi Alonso are encouraging, but is it time to start getting concerned for the North Londoners?

Wenger invariably buys young players, but what would be the harm in signing a veteran or two? My mind wanders back to Liverpool's treble season and the role that shock signing Gary McAllister had on Gerard Houllier's team. Cheap and experienced.

Going several seasons without a league win is nothing new for Arsenal, and Wenger's staunchest supporters will no doubt point to the fact that the last time they did so, the response was a magnificent Double in 2001-2002.

But the side that produced that memorable campaign was bursting with experience, with the addition of Sol Campbell in the summer only embellishing an already accomplished team that included Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pires, Freddie Ljungberg, David Seaman Tony Adams and others.

I got a bit of stick from Arsenal fans for suggesting at the end of the season that some surgery was required this summer, but for me the problem has only intensified since then.

Wenger has justified recent years of transition by pointing out that this latest team is improving and growing together. Well the growing pains have certainly hit now, with last season's side shedding several important organs.

While the Frenchman showed last summer with the purchases of Bacary Sagna and Eduardo da Silva that he has lost none of his magic touch in the transfer market, despite the financial impact that Emirates Stadium has had, new blood is certainly needed now.

After all, haemorrhaging experience is not the best preparation for a long and hard season at the elite level.

Alan Hansen was proved wrong when he stated in 1995 that 'you'll never win anything with kids', but with the demands of The Premier League higher than ever and squad depth perhaps the most important factor in any title race, it is clear Wenger has serious work to do before the season kicks off on August 16.

You would not put it past a man who was ridiculed for suggesting his side could go unbeaten in the league and then did just that a year later, but winning the title with as inexperienced a squad as he has at present would maybe be his finest achievement.

Vela sets lofty target

2008-07-17T23:30:00.000+05:30

Carlos Vela has set his sights on winning the Premier League title in his first season at Arsenal.

The Mexican has been on Arsenal’s books for three years, but they were forced to farm him out on loan due to work permit issues.

The 19-year-old flourished in Spain and Gunners chief Arsene Wenger brought him back to North London as soon as he was given the green light by the home office.

Arsenal have come up short in recent seasons, but the green shoots of recovery were in evidence last term and Vela is keen to take the club back to the summit.

”I believe that this team can do very well and I think that we can compete for the title,” said Vela.

”I am hopeful that when this season is over we can look back and be satisfied with what we achieve.”

Alexander Hleb - his Arsenal career in pictures

2008-07-17T23:27:00.000+05:30

Alexander Hleb completed his move from Arsenal to Barcelona on Wednesday. During his three years with the Club the Belarus midfielder amassed 129 appearances, 11 goals and numerous assists. As a farewell, Arsenal.com is taking a pictorial look back on his time in North London.

Walking out with the team

Slotting home at Highbury

Beating Roberto Carlos

Celebrating a goal in the 2005/06 season

Saluting fans on Final Salute Day

Walking out in Paris in 2006

Riding a challenge from Ashley Cole

Steering a shot past Brad Freidel

Scoring a winner against Fulham

Taking flight at Emirates Stadium

Joking during the warm-up

Relaxing during training

Gilberto leaves Arsenal - a picture special

2008-07-17T23:24:00.001+05:30

Take a look below for some of the special moments in the Brazilian's Arsenal career.

Scoring on his Arsenal debut

Winning a trophy in his first game!

With the FA Cup in 2003

Celebrating the title with Henry

Winning the league at White Hart Lane

A title winner in 2002

Scoring againat Blackburn Rovers

Another FA Cup win in 2005

Rising to head home against FC Thun

Sparing our blushes against Doncaster

Knocking out Juventus in 2006

Scoring our first goal at Emirates

Celebrating a goal with Adebayor

Scoring a penalty against Tottenham

Back at Emirates Stadium with Brazil

'Mr Reliable' our number 19

Gilberto leaves Arsenal

2008-07-17T23:19:00.002+05:30

Arsenal have confirmed that Gilberto has joined Greek side Panathinaikos. The 31-year-old spent a total of six seasons with the Gunners, making 244 appearances. Here, Arsenal.com reporter Chris Harris pays tribute to the quiet man of Arsenal's midfield.

In a football world awash with ego, hype and sensationalism, Gilberto was a breath of fresh air.

The Brazilian never courted controversy and never spoke out of turn. He arrived quietly, he left quietly and, in between, he was quietly efficient. While emptier vessels made more noise, Gilberto just got the job done.

He came to Arsenal on the crest of a wave, shortly after helping Brazil win the World Cup in the summer of 2002, and the early signs suggested that Arsène Wenger had recruited a goalscoring midfielder. Gilberto scored the winner on his debut in the Community Shield against Liverpool, broke a Champions League record with a goal after just 20.07 seconds of Arsenal's win at PSV Eindhoven and netted at Auxerre a week later.

In truth, Gilberto's qualities were rather more prosaic, though no less important. He had earned the tag 'Invisible Wall' in Brazil for his almost unseen ability to break up attacks, protect his defence and do the simple things well. He soon put those attributes to work at Highbury but struggled to win over some sections of the Highbury crowd. It seemed this un-Brazilian Brazilian was not eye-catching enough for some.

They say 'you don't know what you've got till it's gone' and so it proved with Gilberto. Having provided the midfield foundation for the 'Invincibles' side of 2003/04, the Brazilian suffered a serious back injury which left him in a brace for much of the following campaign. Suddenly Arsenal looked fragile; suddenly Gilberto's worth was obvious. Where was the man who won the ball back, who shielded the back four? He was sidelined, and he was missed.

Gilberto's return was well-timed. Shortly afterwards, Patrick Vieira left the club and it was left to the Brazilian to guide Cesc Fabregas through the embryonic stage of his Arsenal career. It worked - Wenger's new-look line-up reach its first Champions League Final in 2006 and Gilberto excelled in Europe, revelling in the holding role when Arsenal adopted a five-man midfield.

He scaled even greater heights the following season. Thierry Henry was officially the club captain but, in his injury-forced absence, Gilberto grew from the quiet man of midfield into the team leader. He wore the armband, he took the penalties, he filled in at centre-back and he contributed 11 goals, including a North London derby double and a late equaliser in the historic opening game at Emirates Stadium.

If that showed his character on the pitch, Gilberto's conduct off the pitch was just as exemplary. Arsenal endured some desperate defeats that season but the Brazilian never shied away from reporters and spoke with integrity and honesty in his post-match interviews.

In a similar vein, Gilberto didn't vent his frustrations in the media when things weren't going his way last season. Missing out on the captaincy and losing his first-team spot must have hurt, but Gilberto knuckled down, worked hard and, when his opportunity came, he stepped up and performed.

Panathinaikos are about to find out what Arsenal have known for six years: Gilberto is a man you can rely on.

Alex Hleb leaves Arsenal to join Barcelona

2008-07-17T10:06:00.001+05:30

Arsenal can confirm that Alexander Hleb has signed for Barcelona for an undisclosed fee.

Hleb (27) signed for Arsenal from German side VfB Stuttgart in June 2005 and made a total of 129 appearances during his time with the Club, scoring 11 goals. Last season, the Belarusian international was a regular in the team, making 42 first team appearances in all competitions.

Hleb became the first Belarusian to appear in a UEFA Champions League Final when the Club played Barcelona in the 2006 Paris final. Alex was also voted Belarusian footballer of the year in 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2006, as well as Belarusian Sportsman of the Year in 2002.

On Hleb’s departure, Arsène Wenger said: “We must firstly thank Alex for his contribution towards Arsenal Football Club during his time with us. Alex played a significant role in the three seasons he was with the Club. We are comfortable with our decision to let him go and we are all looking forward to continuing our preparations for the new season ahead.”

Everyone at Arsenal Football Club wishes Alex the best of luck for the future.

The Alex factor - did Hleb help Arsenal?

2008-07-16T17:47:00.000+05:30

After three seasons in North London, Alexander Hleb is off to Catalunya. Opta look at how the creative midfielder has done at Emirates Stadium and break down his stats.

Hleb arrived from Stuttgart in the summer of 2005. Since then, the 27-year-old Belarusian has played in numerous midfield positions, especially on the right wing.

Last season though, Hleb had more freedom to roam, generally playing in a more central position and regularly interacting with Cesc Fabregas.

His stats reflect that point, as Hleb set up six goals in the league last season, more than half his tally over the three years he spent at Arsenal. Who can forget his deft touch for Fabregas’ goal at Liverpool back in October 2007?

Season	Games	Goals	Assists
2005/06	25	3	0
2006/07	33	2	4
2007/08	31	2	6
Total	89	7	10

Hleb also netted the injury time winner against Fulham on the opening day of the campaign; a confidence booster which helped to contribute towards Arsenal’s great start to the season.

When it came to the crunch, Hleb did not particularly waste too many chances – a fact shown by his 13% conversion rate, which is above the league average. However, his critics will point the finger at his unwillingness to shoot. With only 15 shots all season, less than one every two games, the window for goals was significantly smaller – hence he scored only two goals in The Premier League last season.

Arsenal in the league	With Hleb	Without Hleb
Win %	54%	60%
Goals/game	1.70	1.86

His lack of goal scoring venom is also reflected in Arsenal’s general play. Over his three seasons, Arsenal scored on average more goals when Hleb was not on the pitch (1.86 against 1.70) while The Gunners also won a greater ratio of games without the Belarusian (60% against 54%). As he prepares to team up with his old Arsenal partner Thierry Henry at Barcelona, Hleb knows he has big challenge ahead of him – filling Ronaldinho’s boots.

Source:Setanta sports

Hleb to have Barca medical

2008-07-16T17:37:00.001+05:30

Barcelona have confirmed that Arsenal star Alexander Hleb will arrive in Catalunya on Wednesday to undergo a medical, with the Primera Liga giants expecting to wrap up the signing of the Belarus international within 24 hours.

Hleb’s future in North London has been the subject of prolonged debate but his long goodbye from Arsenal is almost complete and he will arrive for a photo call with Barca on Wednesday afternoon, before undergoing the necessary medical examinations.

Josep Guardiola’s side are then expected to announce the signing of the former Stuttgart star on Thursday as Hleb ends a mixed spell at Arsenal.

“The player Alexander Hleb, who has spent the last three seasons at Arsenal, arrives today (Wednesday) to undergo a medical examination before joining FC Barcelona,” read a club statement.

“Assuming that the tests are passed satisfactorily, tomorrow Alexander Hleb could sign the contract and be presented as a new player for FC Barcelona.”

The 27-year-old joined The Gunners for £11.2 million from Stuttgart in 2005 but took his time to settle in his new surroundings and his first two seasons were somewhat temperamental.

Last season he came into his own though, playing a key role in Arsenal’s stunning form in the first half of the campaign before their domestic and European challenge fell apart in March and April.

His future at Arsenal first appeared in doubt when it was alleged he had met with Inter officials on the eve of his club’s Champions League tie against Milan on March 4.

The midfielder also recently claimed that he was unhappy living amongst the hustle and bustle of the English capital and will no doubt appreciate the Spanish siesta lifestyle as he looks for a quieter existence in La Liga.

Gilberto to have Panathinaikos medical

2008-07-16T10:03:00.000+05:30

Panathinaikos have welcomed Gilberto to Greece to undergo a medical and sign a contract with his new club.

The experienced Arsenal midfielder has agreed to a three-year contract after calling time on his Gunners career.

Henk ten Cate's appointment as Pana's new coach has sparked great optimism and the Brazilian signing was expected to be greeted by thousands of fans when landing at the airport.

Arsenal confirmed receiving other offers for Gilberto, with Everton believed to be interested in keeping him in England.

However, the South American's desire was to head to Pana and start a new chapter of his career under former Chelsea man ten Cate.

Arsenal chairman unaware of fresh developments over duo's future

2008-07-15T22:41:00.001+05:30

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood is unaware of any fresh developments in the 'long-running sagas' over Alexander Hleb and Emmanuel Adebayor's future.

Belarusian midfielder Hleb has been strongly linked with a move to Barcelona, and is reportedly set to complete his transfer in the coming days.

Meanwhile, Adebayor's future is uncertain with Gunners boss Arsene Wenger insisting the striker will remain at Emirates Stadium, despite interest from AC Milan and Barca.

When asked of the latest news on the duo's futures, Hill-Wood told the club's official website: "No, nothing new. But it is a long-running saga in both cases."

So far this summer Wenger has landed teenage midfielder Aaron Ramsey from Cardiff and France international Samir Nasri from Marseille.

And Hill-Wood is excited by the potential of Arsenal's latest recruits ahead of the new season.

He said: "I don't know a great deal but it doesn't terribly matter what I think. The man who matters is Arsene Wenger and he has very high hopes for both of them.

"They are pretty young and Arsene believes they can be pretty fine players. Nasri is a bit more advanced than Ramsey, who is 17.

"Samir has played at the top level and is an established player already. They are two very exciting prospects and they will strengthen the squad in a big way."

Cesc looks to class of '89

2008-07-15T22:40:00.000+05:30

Cesc Fabregas admits he and his Arsenal team-mates can look to The Gunners’ title-winning side of 1989 for inspiration in the coming season.

Fabregas was speaking at the launch of Arsenal’s new away kit which is based on that donned by the side which won the league 19 years ago.

The Euro 2008 winner appeared alongside the hero of that night, Michael Thomas, and could not help but be inspired as Arsenal seek to win The Premier League for the first time in their last five attempts.

“I was only two years old so I know a little, not a lot. But I do know they were legends,” he told Arsenal TV.

“Everyone loved them so we all hope here that we can do the same as that team. It would be amazing, it has to be a great feeling.”

Thomas was also keen to reminisce about the night that he struck the decisive goal in a 2-0 victory over Liverpool which gifted George Graham’s side the title on goal difference.

“The atmosphere George made it was just to relax,” he said. “We were laughing, we were joking.

“The atmosphere afterwards was amazing. Everyone was celebrating, even George!”

Arsenal defend season ticket hike

2008-07-14T22:37:00.000+05:30

Arsenal director Danny Fizman has defended an increase of 4.5% in season tickets prices at the Emirates Stadium.

After a four-year price freeze, the cost of the cheapest ticket has risen from £885 to £925 for next season.

The hike means Arsenal's prices are £275 more expensive than the next highest club, Liverpool, but Fizman insists tickets remain good value.

"There are often comparisons made and we seem to be expensive, but it's never apples for apples," he said.

"Our season tickets include cup and Champions League games, which other clubs charge extra for.

"In fact they charge a premium for them. Our prices should be judged in that way rather than on the pure top line number."

He added: "We've held the prices for four years but there is substantial inflation in football.

"Rather than keep holding prices back and then having a huge increase, we think it's better to have a small, steady increase rather than a big jump."

Vela: I'll be a warrior for Gunners

2008-07-14T15:31:00.002+05:30

As he prepares to begin his Premier League career in North London, Mexico starlet Carlos Vela has pledged to be a ‘warrior’ for Arsenal next season.

The 19-year-old was first captured by The Gunners after finishing as top scorer in the 2005 Fifa Under-17 Word Cup but had to spend successive spells in Spain with Celta Vigo, Salamanca and Osasuna before finally being awarded a work permit in May.

Anticipation is building amongst Arsenal fans as Vela is a deeply promising talent who has scored twice in two senior World Cup qualifiers for his country and caught the eye for Osasuna last season as he made 33 appearances in Spain’s Primera Liga.

Arsene Wenger has hinted that he expects Vela to become a player in the Eduardo da Silva mould in the long term, and the Mexican is certainly ready to make an impact in his first season in England.

“I have a lot of character and pride as a footballer and I am not arriving scared of The Premier League,” Vela told news agency Notimex.

“I want to be a warrior for The Gunners.

“I am a humble person and I will arrive at Arsenal to learn and help the team. I am very happy for this opportunity and I do not want to fail.

“My stay in Spain was key to make the jump to The Premier League. Now I am more mature and strong on the pitch.

“For me, Spain and England are the best leagues in the world. Now I hope to apply my experiences to Arsenal.

“My mission is to work, train hard and fight for a place in the squad. I know that is not easy but the season is long and I will have chances.”

Along with Aaron Ramsey and Samir Nasri, Vela is the third young player joining Arsenal’s first team squad for the coming season and the Mexican is excited about the prospect of working under Wenger and alongside Cesc Fabregas.

“Wenger is one of the best coaches in the world and a perfect master for young players,” Vela added. “This is my big advantage and the motive to sign for Arsenal and to reject other big offers.

“Spain was a just winner of Euro 2008 and Cesc Fabregas was sensational. For me he is my idol and it will be a great experience to work next to him in the squad.

“I hope he will help me in the first months.”

However, there is one aspect of the move to England that has been troubling Vela, as the young forward admits he is struggling to learn the native tongue.

“During the summer I have been having English lessons. Now it is my big problem because I only know a few words but I hope to learn very quickly. It will be a necessity and obligation for me.”

The Francesc Fabregas Biography by Edwardo

2008-07-14T10:26:00.001+05:30

This video is 4 minute long giving you the entire picture of cesc fabregas's life, so far.

The high quality version of the same video can be downloaded here

Samir Nasri Comilation by Mafmoe

2008-07-14T10:09:00.003+05:30

This is a 3 minute compilation of samir Nasri showing his childhood as well as his skills by Mafmoe

TheVideo can be downloaded here

Alexandre Song's Profile

2008-07-14T09:45:00.000+05:30

Name: Alexandre Song Billong
Place of birth: Douala, Cameroon
Date of birth: September 9 1987
Position: Defender [can also play in midfield]
Weight: 75 kg
Height: 1.83 m

Blood

Football runs in the Song bloodline. When Alexandre was seven years old he would have been watching his uncle, Rigobert, represent their nation in 1994 on the greatest stage of them all – the World Cup. With every passing year, Rigobert would collect more caps and, with 119 appearances, he is now Cameroon’s most capped player. Rigobert also holds the record as the youngest footballer to ever be sent off in a World Cup, aged 17. What attributes did Rigobert, of former Liverpool and West Ham United fame, pass down to nephew Alex? For starters they are both defensively sound, good in the tackle, and display a responsible attitude to work-rate. Yet Rigobert’s fiery temper, together with his almost magnetic attraction to the referee’s cards, seems to have skipped a generation, as this is nowhere to be found in young Alexandre. Despite only being restricted to a run of three games in the Carling Cup, two matches in the Champions League, and then five starts and four substitute appearances in the Premier League, Alex, during the 2007-2008 season, never received a single cautionary booking. Speaking to Arsenal TV Online, Alex spoke of the influence his uncle is to him: “We call each other every couple of days really, I’m lucky to have someone next to me with all the experience that he has. He guides me a lot and offers advice on where I can improve… He is my idol really so if I only achieve a quarter of what he’s done then I shall be very happy.”

Bastia

Song joined Bastia in the 2003-2004 season where he impressed for a year with the B-team. The following season he was promoted to the full team where he featured over 30 times. This brief spell with the Corsican club, at a supposed raw age, attracted the attention of English clubs Middlesbrough and Manchester United; French giants Lyon; and Italian heavyweights Internazionale. Song played mostly as centre-back with the occasional outing in the left-back position. This versatility would eventually work in his favour when on trial with Arsenal. Arsene Wenger spotted Song during one of his meticulous scouting missions headed by former double-winning defender and now praised-scout Gilles Grimandi. Song, as a trialist, joined Arsenal in Austria for pre-season training in 2005. Impressed with what he saw in training, Wenger decided to take the then 17-year old on loan for a year, with the option to buy. A year later Bastia accepted a £1million transfer and Song signed a four-year contract with the North London club. On his time with Bastia, Song said: “I was lucky because the coach I had there was the same I had during my time with the youth team. He went on to take control of the first team so he knew my game well and put a lot of faith in me. I was granted chances and took them, I gave everything I could give and the season was very positive. Unfortunately, not so much for the club because we were relegated.”

Up And Gunner

During his initial trial, Wenger experimented with Alexandre in friendlies against Weiz, Ritzing, and FC Utrecht. He suitably impressed the youth-driven Arsenal boss and while on his loan-season at N5, Alex quickly found himself thrown into the Highbury spotlights. Once the deal was complete, Wenger publicly declared his satisfaction with the coup: “He is only 17 but from what I have seen he is a very good player.” He made his Premier League debut on September 19th 2005, after Arsenal had already secured a two-nil victory against Everton. “To make my debut against Everton… only for five minutes, was great. It was a dream for me to play for Arsenal and this day will forever be engraved in my mind.” The youngster went on to feature in the red and white shirt in a fair amount of games in his debut season. He looked nervous, and out of his depth, and it was perhaps this form, coupled with this sense of self-doubt, that led many Arsenal fans to question his ability and may have even contributed to the decision that saw him move to Charlton Athletic for a short loan spell a year or so later. Before his mid-season deadline-day move to the Addicks, Song managed to score his first goal for Arsenal, coming against the entertaining six-three triumph over Liverpool, scoring a clipped shot from set-play.

Addick

Despite fans reservations about the talent at Song’s feet, Alan Pardew showed enough faith in his ability to sign him on the last day of the January transfer window, to help the Charlton club avoid relegation. The Cameroonian endeared himself to The Valley faithful for his animalistic displays. Song often saw pitch-time, and he even displaced the experienced legs of Matt Holland, Bryan Hughes, and Amdy Faye. He was admired for his get-stuck-in attitude, his willingness to fight for the ball, his energy, his drive, and his motivation for bringing the ball out from the back, linking the positional lines, and starting play. These traits are often witnessed in Munich and Brazil from the powerful defender Lucio, and in the red-side of Manchester from the seasoned Rio Ferdinand. It was also during his time with Charlton that his passing and movement were noted. There can be no doubts that, in spite of the club’s eventual relegation (something Song had experienced before with Bastia), the man himself had grown in confidence, and this would prove essential on his return to North London.

Arsenal Return

With the experience from his recent loan, Song showed a marked improvement playing for the Emirates side. It was a new beginning for the still young defender. Much in the same way his coach at Bastia showed faith in him, Wenger granted Alex with Carling Cup opportunities against Newcastle United, Sheffield United, and most impressively Blackburn Rovers. Sheffield aside, these were sides that had a number of years and more experienced heads and legs, than a learning youthful and typically-Wenger Carling Cup team. He performed like he did whilst at Charlton. Either by receiving the ball to feet, or chasing the ball down himself, to instead of passing the ball out of defence, he would dribble the ball into safety. His concentration had improved, too.

His uncle Rigobert, the ever-so influential man in Alex’s life, was watching on in the Blackburn game and was overjoyed to see his blood surge from the back as the game was tied in extra time and provide Eduardo with the game-winning goal. It has been reported that it was this performance that prompted Rigobert to inform the Cameroonian authorities that he was worthy of a place in the upcoming African Cup of Nations tournament.

Africa Cup of Nations

Although he had no international experience the 6’1’’ tall former France U16 youth player was called up to participate in the 2008 African Cup of Nations to represent Cameroon. He even made his debut in their first group game, to replace Stephane Mbia at half time and join his uncle on the pitch. It has been reported that Song was drafted in to replace Mbia due to injury; however, those who say there was little balance in the West-African side’s midfield counter this claim. His inclusion was seen to be more of a tactical switch. Boy did it work. His performances until the end of the tournament were a revelation, even securing a man-of-the-match performance in the semi-final victory at the expense of Ghana, creating the assist for the only goal of the game. An injury sustained during this match may have proved costly but he still started the final, only to be forcibly replaced after 70 minutes, and eventually collect a runners-up medal. His efforts during this tournament were rewarded by the Technical Study Group, who analysed every player’s performances, and picked Song, along with Muntari, Yaya, Rabo, and Aboutreika, as the midfield men of the team of the tournament.

The Future

What does the future behold for Alexandre? With the departure of Mathieu Flamini from the Grove there is a vacant slot waiting to be filled anchoring the midfield. Whether Wenger fills this position with an acquisition still remains to be seen. Yet playing Alexandre in central defence for the final five games of the 2007-2008 season surely provides an insight into where Arsene views Song’s most suited vocation. His stock has risen monumentally from the days when he was criticised. Wenger revealed to the clubs official website: “I believe that Song is a remarkable player and I was one of the few who believed in him… I can even show you articles in newspapers that say he was the worst buy I have made but you will see in one or two years that he will be a great player for Arsenal. When I make a decision, I base it on the characteristics of the footballer, whether they be physical or mental.” Commenting on where Song’s more suitable position lay, Arsene said: “When I put a player somewhere, I know why I do it. If I play Song at centre back it is because I believe he will be a great centre back for Arsenal. In the case of Song, he can also play in central midfield. Can he play 60 games there in a single campaign? I am not convinced.” The player himself is just happy to play, no matter where it is on the field: “For me it does not matter if I play in defence or midfield. When I first arrived the coach told me he wanted me in midfield and that was not a problem for me – wherever the coach wants me to play then that is what I will try to do.” Regarding his future at the Emirates, Song said: “The boss has asked me to work hard all the time and give everything I have and never to give up. I will need to fight extremely hard if I am going to win a place in this Arsenal side.” With the loss of energy that the ‘running man’ Flamini gave the Gunners, this fighting spirit could be key to Alexandre’s inclusion in the first team this coming season.

Nasri - The reasons why I wanted to sign for Arsenal

2008-07-11T21:18:00.000+05:30

French international midfielder Samir Nasri has agreed to join Arsenal from Olympique Marseille on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old, who made two appearances for France at Euro 2008, was voted as the French Ligue 1 'Young Player of the Year' for 2006/07 and was Marseille's Player of the Year for 2007.

Samir granted his first interview to Arsenal.com shortly after arriving in England. Read on to find out how much Arsène Wenger was a factor in his decision to move, his friendship with Arsenal's French contingent, the advice he received from Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira and his hopes for next season.

Samir, welcome to London and to Arsenal Football Club. Can you give us your thoughts on becoming an Arsenal player?

"I’m very happy to become an Arsenal player, it means such a lot to me. This is a very important step in my life as a football player because Arsenal is a massive club."

How important was Arsène Wenger in your decision to join Arsenal?

"The fact that Arsène Wenger gives great opportunities to young players is very important for me. Arsène has a great reputation and he is one of the best managers in the world. He has proved that he puts a lot of confidence in the young players and he gives them a chance. It was very important for me to have such a great manager to work with and I’m really looking forward to working with both Arsène Wenger and all my new team-mates."

Do you know many of the Arsenal players? You must be quite close to the French players?

"Yes, I know all the French players. Of course, I have played with William Gallas in the national team and was with him in the France squad for the Euro 2008 championships. I have also played with Gael Clichy and Abou Diaby in the France Under-21 team. So I don’t arrive in an unfamiliar place. And I already know some other players as well. For example, Cesc Fabregas, who I played against in the Under-17 European Cup a few years ago. I obviously know all the players, as I have followed the team’s progress, but I am really looking forward to meeting everyone."

Arsenal have a great link to France and French players, with players such as Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira both making huge contributions to the Club. Are you aware of this link?

"I know Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira very well and they have told me a lot of good things about Arsenal Football Club. They both had amazing times at this Club and, even talking to them now, they are still very enthusiastic about Arsenal. Both Thierry and Patrick have given me a lot of advice and they both told me that it was the best choice for me to come to Arsenal."

Was it a difficult decision to leave Marseille?

"I had good times at Marseille, but no, it was not difficult, as I leave the past behind me now that I have signed for Arsenal. This is a new stage in my career. When I was with Marseille, I was still the little boy, staying with my mum and dad, and today it’s a great moment for me to join Arsenal. It will be a little weird because I will have to get used to a new life, but I’m grown up now and I am ready to cope with this change."

How would you describe yourself as a player?

"I am an offensive midfielder. I like offensive, technical and quick football, exactly in the style of Arsenal. I hope I will integrate myself quickly in this team and bring everything I can to Arsenal and its fans. I can play in the centre or on the wing. During my career, I have played behind one or two strikers or on the left, or the right hand side."

Did you watch much of Arsenal last season?

"Yes I did and I loved it! I found the Arsenal way of playing football amazing. Unfortunately, the team just missed out on winning a trophy, but with regards to football, in my opinion Arsenal produced the best football in Europe. I was a big fan of the team and of its football philosophy, which makes it so great for me to be joining the Club."

And finally Samir, do you have a message for the Arsenal fans?

"I really hope everything will go well for me here. I will give my best for Arsenal and its fans and I am honoured to be part of such a great football club."

Source:Arsenal.com

Samir Nasri Signs,Finally!!

2008-07-11T16:56:00.001+05:30

French international midfielder Samir Nasri has agreed to join Arsenal from Olympique Marseille on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

Nasri (21), who made two appearances for France in Euro 2008, was voted as the French Ligue 1 'Young Player of the Year' for 2006/07 and was also Olympique Marseille's Player of the Year for 2007.

Nasri, has made twelve appearances (scoring twice) for the French national team, making his debut for his country in March 2007 in the 1-0 friendly win over Austria. He was also a French Under-21 international and part of the French Under-17s who won the European Championships in 2004.

The young attacking midfielder made 145 appearances (scoring 11 goals) for Olympique Marseille, during which time he won the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2005, was a French Cup runner-up in 2006 and 2007 and helped his side into third place in Ligue 1 last season, thus securing a UEFA Champions League place for next season.

Manager Arsène Wenger said: "We are delighted to be signing Samir Nasri. He is young, quick and technically an outstanding player. He has shown great potential with his performances for Marseille and the French national team over the past two seasons and he will add great quality to our squad."

Nasri added: "I'm very happy to become an Arsenal player, it means such a lot to me. This is a very important step in my life as a football player because Arsenal is a massive club. I really hope everything will go well for me here. I will do my best for Arsenal and its fans and I am honoured to be part of such a great football club."

Samir Nasri is due to join up with his new Arsenal team mates for pre-season training on 21st July.

Samir Nasri Compilation

2008-07-11T16:54:00.002+05:30

A video compilation on our new signing, Samir Nasri by Hellwardk. Its a three and a half minute video.

Its a very good compilation showing his skills and trickery reminding the viewer of a certain Hleb in his prime.

The video can be downloaded here

Nasri's Profile

The Reason why he joined Arsenal

Samir Nasri Profile

2008-07-11T16:53:00.002+05:30

Just as every diminutive attacking midfielder player that shows promise born in Argentina is dubbed “the next Maradona” in France there is an obsession about uncovering Zidane's heir. It has been only 2 years since the great midfielder's retirement but there have already been a number of successors lined up by a media hungry for another start.

Never shy of burdening their players with heavy expectations the next man in succession to claim the number 10 jersey of France is a player largely unheralded outside his native country at present.

This is to shortly change as Samir Nasri, at 20 years-old, is poised for his big break with English giants Arsenal after a lengthy association with Olympique Marseille. Comparisons with Zidane were somewhat inevitable for the Marseille born youngster due to his Algerian heritage and similar, but certainly not identical, style of play to the French icon.

An astute passer of the ball that commands great technical ability Nasri has admitted that he finds such an association flattering but has always played down the comparison.

Certainly the manner in which he can command matches is reminiscent of Zidane however Nasri is currently a player that relies on his passing ability more than the dynamic French great. A fairer comparison may be made to current Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas.

Like the Spanish midfielder Nasri showed increased acumen in front of goal last season by scoring 6 times in 30 Ligue 1 appearances. In addition to this he produced 10 decisive passes, a tally that tied with Jérôme Leroy (Rennes) and Nenê (Monaco) as a league leading figure.

Dubbed 'le Petit Prince' Nasri found the talent to score important goals last term. Strikes against Nancy, Metz and Strasbourg in the second half of the season helped Marseille to third spot in the Ligue 1 and no doubt caught the eye of Arsène Wenger.

Generation '87

Wegner's ear is particularly close to the ground in his homeland, where the name of Samir Nasri has been known for several years. It was his goal that led les Bleus under-17 squad to a European Championship victory 4 years ago and first hinted that the class of player born in France in 1987 might just be something special.

Nasri may have been awarded the prize for being the tournament's outstanding player but no longer is he the most prominent member of 'Generation '87'. That accolade instead goes to Karim Benzema however Nasri has only been eclipsed by the Lyon star only in terms of exposure and not with regard to talent.

Early Career

A move worth an estimated €15 million to the English Premier League is simply the culmination of years of hard work both by the modestly-sized midfielder and the coaching staff of Marseille.

At the age of just 9 Nasri was spotted playing for a local junior team by Marseille scouts Freddy Assolen and Roger Giovannini. Swiftly they signed the eager youngster up to the youth ranks of the club.

Nasri enjoyed several successes at various levels throughout the academy of the Provence side before he made his debut for the top team early in season 2004/05 at the age of just 17. Marseille may have lost 2-0 away to Sochaux that day but it was to be the beginning of a happy relationship between Nasri and the first team.

It took Nasri until last term to solidify his spot in the starting eleven fully as a brilliant spell of form after Christmas helped to catapult Marseille away from the relegation zone and into second spot.

International Acclaim

This brilliant run of games ensured that it was impossible for Raymond Domenech, head coach of France, to ignore him. On March 15th 2007 Nasri made his international debut as a starter against Austria, playing the opening 70 minutes.

Over the last fifteen months Nasri has played on an impressive 12 occasions for his country however he was poorly utilised by Domenech during Euro2008.

When France were crying out for a creative player in the centre of the field as they toiled to a scoreless draw with an unspectacular Romanian side Nasri was left helpless on the bench for much too long. Against Italy it finally seemed that the youngster had his chance to finally shine on a big stage after Franck Ribéry was taken off early due to injury. This opportunity was cruelly curtailed when Nasri was chosen to be the player sacrificed for a defender after Abidal was dismissed.

Arsenal

Sometimes even quality is no of guarantee of success when moving abroad however Arsenal's large French-speaking contingent should make life relatively easy for Nasri, whose last year in Marseille was interrupted by problems with injury and illness at the season's outset.

A reported four year contract is Arsenal's seal of approval for the young attacking midfielder. As ever with the Gunners they will allow their new signing time to acclimatise however with Nasri's technical ability and vision he should slot into Wenger's side with few problems.

England's Premier League is, of course, noted for its pace and physical play. It may be some months before Nasri can settle in and play his best football. Although not scrawny the 12 time capped French international will likely have to build up his strength significantly to cope with the robust nature of the game.

In his advantage Nasri has played over well over 100 competitive games for Marseille and is therefore highly experienced for a man who does not turn 21 until next week.

With Arsenal's track record of bringing through young players, expect Nasri to be a household name by next May.

Million-pound flats and gastropubs - welcome to Hleb's chaotic world

2008-07-11T11:11:00.001+05:30

If Alexander Hleb resided in Harlesden or Tooting he might have received a touch more sympathy. Life in those parts of London can indeed be chaotic and people do seem to be racing around 24 hours a day. But Hampstead? The loudest sound you hear is the banging of hammers as builders enhance already luxurious properties.

Of all his attempts to force a move from Arsenal, Hleb's most recent - living in London is so frenzied that it has left him "mentally tired" - is the most feeble. The Belarus international, who is expected to sign for Barcelona shortly, lives in one of the capital's most affluent enclaves, a hill village littered with coffee shops and gastropubs, which, according to a recent survey, has more millionaires than any other area of Britain. The average price for a property there is £1.2m.

"I can't get used to the chaotic way of life in London," he said. "Everyone is racing around 24 hours a day."

Hleb's own bit of Hampstead is particularly exclusive, a stretch of eye-catching apartments and towering trees which has gained something of a reputation within the Arsenal dressing room. Cesc Fábregas and Robin van Persie also live there, as did Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry. How Hleb could find life there stressful is anybody's guess. Six people walked through the road during the two hours the Guardian was there.

Hleb was not around - he was attending possibly his final training session at London Colney - but, had the noise got to him, the 27-year-old could have strolled to Hampstead Heath, five minutes away, which offers enough tranquillity to soothe the most frazzled mind. "This is a lovely area to live in and those that do should count themselves very lucky," said one resident, Caroline Shepherd. "How this man can say it is chaotic is beyond me."

If Hleb is looking for a quiet life then he will not do much better than the leafy patch of north London he currently calls home. The winger will certainly not be getting more sleep if, as expected, he is soon living within range of Las Ramblas. Money seems to be the overriding factor but one look at his address makes that explanation, too, difficult to believe.

Source:Guardian

Hleb has confirmed he is closing in on an exit from Arsenal

2008-07-11T10:56:00.000+05:30

It has been claimed that Barcelona are poised to sign the playmaker from the North London side in the coming days and Hleb’s statement seems to back up such reports emanating from Spain.

The former Stuttgart star has spoken of his struggle to adjust to life in London and is now ready to turn his back on the capital in order to continue his career in foreign fields.

"Serious negotiations are under way now. I have made up my mind,” said Hleb.

"I am not happy with my life in Britain, to be honest.

"Elements of day-to-day life may prevent me in future from playing a full part with my team here.

"I can't get used to the chaotic way of life in London, where everyone is racing around 24 hours a day. It is uncomfortable and I'm mentally tired.

"I feel I can't keep squeezing enough out of myself to satisfy a team like Arsenal. As a professional I honestly told [manager Arsene] Wenger that at our two recent meetings.

"I was seeking his advice on whether I should leave. I also made no secret that some leading European clubs were interested in me. Wenger wasn't happy about that.”

Wenger's want-away generation paint Arsenal into a corner

2008-07-11T10:53:00.000+05:30

Manager faces new problem as still developing players flex their muscles for money, writes David Hytner

As ever, Arsène Wenger used his quick wit to disarm the questioner before restating his conviction with characteristic coolness. The Arsenal manager spent the duration of Euro 2008 flitting between Switzerland and Austria in his work as a pundit for French TV and a corporate-function speaker for an oil company. Back in London, though, the fires burned.

With Mathieu Flamini gone on a Bosman to Milan, increasing doubts had been placed against the futures of Alexander Hleb and Emmanuel Adebayor, and there had been noises of disquiet from other key players. Did a part of Wenger not wish that he was at home to tackle the problems? "I enjoy it more here," he said with a smile to his audience in Basle. "Because in London I am much more confronted with problems. Here I have a little distance. But I am very calm about the situation because I don't know why I should be nervous.

"It's like when you take a penalty, if you are nervous it doesn't help. I will approach it with my usual calm. My biggest challenge is to make sure I have a competitive team next year, no matter who it is."

Adebayor and Hleb were both outstanding last season. The former scored 30 goals in all competitions; the latter demanded attention with his quick feet and weaving dribbles. At present, though, there is unfulfilled potential in them and this is what makes their potential departures so disturbing for Wenger. Hleb, who has repeatedly voiced a desire to leave, is close to a move to Barcelona, and Adebayor, who has been a master of the mixed message since the end of the season, has admirers at Barcelona and Milan. It was reported in Italy last night that Adriano Galliani, the Milan vice-president, was due to meet Wenger in the south of France at the weekend.

In the past relative underachievers who have been signed by Wenger - Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry are perhaps the best examples - have been improved and moved on after giving the club their best years. Only when injuries began to hit and their form dipped were they ushered off in exchange for big fees. The contrast with the cases of Hleb and Adebayor, and even Flamini and Lassana Diarra, who left for Portsmouth last January, is unsettling.

"Vieira and Henry were probably just coming past their peak," said Nigel Winterburn, a former Arsenal left-back. "They'd given everything and Arsène would not stand in their way. He doesn't like confrontation anyway. But Hleb and Adebayor he would feel very let down by. This is the first time that established players have wanted to move before Arsène has fully polished them up and that is a bit of a worry."

The heads of the pair have been turned not only by the prospect of glory but by the force that controls the game. It is already deposited into their bank accounts in large sums every month but they know that they can improve their incomes elsewhere, particularly in a market which is short of top-quality attacking talent. Hleb has been promised a significant rise at Barcelona and Adebayor has been quoted as saying that he believes he should now earn the same as Henry, the player he has effectively replaced. Adebayor currently gets £35,000 a week; Henry took home more than three times that in his final Arsenal contract.

Wenger, who must decide whether to sanction a move for Gilberto Silva to Panathinaikos, often comes across as a romantic, a man wedded to principle and unwilling to conform to the eye-watering excesses of 21st-century football. Just as it would affront him to buy a superstar for £30m, he finds it crass the way Chelsea have thrown their new money around. It beggars his belief that Adebayor should be worth £100,000 a week after one season.

Yet there is also a pragmatic edge to the Arsenal manager and the strict wage structure he has put in place. He has raised its ceiling only for Vieira and Henry and he steadfastly offers one-year contract extensions to players turned 30.

"If Adebayor is looking for £100,000-a-week plus, he is not going to get it at Arsenal, especially after one good season," Winterburn said. "Henry performed over many seasons. Look at what he achieved and won. He built up to his final contract.

"Arsène has a value for every player, in wages and on the market. If you come to a stalemate over wages and another club offers that player's value, he will leave. Arsenal have never been the best of payers. You have to decide whether you like being at the club and being paid well or if you want to chase the very top money."

The chairman, Peter Hill-Wood, and his directors have repeatedly said since the move to the £357m Emirates Stadium in 2006 that Wenger has had money to spend. The club borrowed £260m for the move at a fixed rate of 5.3%, which looks very good in the current financial climate, and their annual repayments of £13.78m are manageable. They have sold 91% of the units at the old Highbury and expect to make £300m upon completion of the development, and the new stadium has almost doubled match-day revenues.

The last trophy, though, was in 2005 and departures from the squad Wenger is trying to develop can only fracture the rhythm. He will not change his methods but, if the want-aways blossom elsewhere, the lines in his brow may yet deepen.

Sagna fired up for new season

2008-07-10T16:41:00.000+05:30

Bacary Sagna is hopeful of being fit for the start of the new season, but has admitted Arsenal need to learn from the mistakes of last term.

The right back’s season came to a premature end when he picked up an injury against Chelsea in March.

The 25-year-old is back in full training and has issued an upbeat bulletin on his fitness.

“I’m okay,” Sagna told L’Equipe. “I was back at training last week, a bit before everybody, to accustom myself to running at a high rhythm again.

“In principle, if everything goes well, I should be ready when the season starts.”

The defender has high expectations for the new season but is still concerned by Arsenal’s late capitulation.

He added: “Lots of people tell me it must be a season to confirm the last one, but last year I was already told it was a season to settle. At the end of the day, I did not put myself under pressure and gave my all.

“Of course I’ve been surprised that everything went that well, most of all because I scored my first goal (laughs). But the objective is always collective more than individual.

“We have regrets following last season and we can legitimately aim for higher. But I don’t think setting objectives is a good idea.

“We have to learn from our past mistakes and take the games one by one.

“It’s the best way to experience a good season and to my mind it will be the coach’s words as well. It’s useless to plan for March when you’re not sure to be still in the hunt for the title at that moment.

“When you’re a competitor you’ve to fight for whatever and that’s how you improve. Regarding the Champions League, we experienced very good moments last year, including against AC Milan. We can’t wait to play in it again.”

Adebayor would be a huge loss - Sagna

2008-07-10T00:32:00.000+05:30

Arsenal right back Bacary Sagna understands Alexander Hleb is on his way out of Emirates Stadium, but feels Emmanuel Adebayor would leave a huge void if he followed the midfielder out of the exit door.

Hleb has made it clear that he wants to head away from London, having expressed his frustration with life in the English capital, and Barcelona are hot on his trail.

Sagna has resigned himself to seeing Hleb move on, but feels the club could find the ideal replacement in Samir Nasri.

As far as Adebayor is concerned, the French defender claims he would be less than happy to see the giant Togolese sign with another club.

“It’s part of football…we also lost Mathieu Flamini, who was an important player in midfield,” Sagna told L’Equipe about Hleb.

“That’s a shame, but I’m not worried. Samir [Nasri] should arrive soon and then there are a lot of young players knocking at the door.

“It may be a good chance for them to make the step. Then, of course if Emmanuel [Adebayor] was to leave, it’d be a massive loss.

“But we’re not there yet.”

Hleb: Gunners goodbye won't be easy

2008-07-09T14:42:00.000+05:30

After hailing Arsene Wenger as the best manager he has worked with and Arsenal as the best club in The Premier League, Alexander Hleb has admitted it will not be easy for him to cut his ties with the North London side this summer.

The Belarus star is ready to leave Emirates Stadium after three years working under Wenger and is looking to do so on good terms, having been forced on Tuesday to deny reports that quoted him as criticising both the Frenchman and his good friend Cesc Fabregas.

Barcelona currently appear favourites to sign the midfielder who has already instructed Arsenal of his desire to pursue a new challenge, with Inter withdrawing their own interest following the appointment of Jose Mourinho.

With his time at Arsenal seemingly coming to an end, Hleb has praised Wenger and insisted that leaving The Gunners will be a real wrench.

"I am very grateful to Arsene Wenger,” Hleb told Tut.by. “He is the best coach of my career. And not just a coach. He is a very good man and intuitive psychologist. I very much appreciate his support.

"I talked to him twice before the end of the season. It is also not that easy for me to leave this club, because it has become my home.

“I think he is upset, though it is better to ask him, maybe he is glad.

"In life, everything changes. I believe that there are ten top clubs in world football, and when a couple of clubs are interested in you and offer better terms, I believe that others would have done exactly the same.

"But Arsenal is dear to me, I am grateful to Wenger for everything he has done for me.

"As an Arsenal player, I can say that there is no better club in the English Premiership."

Ramsey plans to start against West Brom

2008-07-08T10:08:00.000+05:30

Aaron Ramsey has already set his sights on making his Arsenal debut against West Brom on 16th August.

The teenager is currently Arsene Wenger's only summer recruit to a squad which ended the 2007/08 campaign empty-handed.

However, with more new faces expected to arrive before the new season gets under way the former Cardiff midfielder knows that he will have his work cut out if he is to make an impression in the Gunners first-team.

The 17-year-old will report for pre-season training on Friday, along with those members of the squad who did not feature at Euro 2008 or are currently injured.

With an opportunity to make a good first impression, plus plenty of friendly fixtures approaching in the next few weeks, Ramsey sees no reason why he should not be in contention once the top flight action begins again next month.

"Obviously the plan for me is to have a good pre-season and try my hardest to get up to the fitness levels the Premiership requires," said Ramsey in the South Wales Echo.

"I will try my best to get in the starting line-up at the beginning of the season against West Brom.

"I am joining one of the biggest clubs in the world, one which always gives young players an opportunity at the highest level.

"I am going to work my hardest to be part of future successes there."

Ramsey was being chased by a number of Premier League clubs at the time of his move to Arsenal, with childhood heroes Manchester United among those involved in the race for his signature.

However, the Wales U21 international spurned the opportunity to join up with Sir Alex Ferguson's men in favour of joining a side renowned for their development of young talent.

"I supported Manchester United as a youngster but once I had spoken to Arsene Wenger, the way he described the Arsenal set-up and their plans for the future impressed me," added the youngster.

"I just had a gut instinct that the right move for me would be joining Arsenal. It was my decision.

"I thought about where the best place would be for me to develop as a player, and that was Arsenal.

"I don't think too many people wouldn't look forward to coming under the guidance of Arsene Wenger and playing next to someone like Cesc Fabregas.

"Arsene is a great manager and Cesc can make something happen out of nothing on the pitch."

Player of the Season is Cesc Fabregas

2008-07-07T15:58:00.000+05:30

The Arsenal.com Player of the Season is Cesc Fabregas. The midfielder deservedly polled 33.26 per cent of vote following his wonderful campaign for club and country. Editor Richard Clarke reflects on the increasing influence of the young Spaniard.

You didn't really think it would be anybody else did you? One in three voters put their online X in the box next to name of Cesc Fabregas and you suspect the other two will have thought about it.

Two seasons ago, the boy became a man. But during the campaign just gone, the man became a force.

Plenty of players have shown the youthful potential to become a footballing megastar - few have done it. Fabregas is not there yet but the trajectory of his career keeps going up and up while the rate of ascent just gets faster.

It is not going too far to suggest his individual display at the San Siro in March was one of the best ever in an Arsenal shirt. Remember this was a Milan side who had dominated Europe over the past five years and had proved their mettle a fortnight earlier with a 0-0 draw at Emirates Stadium. Yet Fabregas and Mathieu Flamini overwhelmed, overran (and perhaps ran over) a midfield of world renown. Milan were so impressed with Arsenal's display that night they signed Flamini at the end of the season. Thankfully Fabregas' heart remains in North London.

The Spaniard struck the opening goal that night and his scoring abilities returned with a vengeance last season. He hit 11 in the opening three months of the season including a run of six in successive games.

Arsene Wenger has said goal-scoring is "a disease" Fabregas contracted early in his career and he would never really be cured. However, handy knack though it is, goals do not define his game. In the previous campaign the Spaniard did not hit the net between August and April yet it hardly hampered his form. Goals catch the eye and grab the headlines but the football of Cesc Fabregas has many more facets than that.

For a start he has been the top of the Premier League 'assists table' for the past two seasons. Last term, Arsenal scored 74 goals. Fabregas hit seven himself and directly contributed to another 19. Although not statistically provable, it is highly likely that he played a role in at least 11 more goals. If we can make that assumption, then we can say Fabregas contributed to half the Premier League goals Arsenal scored last season. That’s some feat - but it’s still not his main job.

In fact Fabregas' primary function is to control the tempo of Wenger's Arsenal. The Frenchman asks his side to play a pacy passing game and the 21-year-old is the metronome. To fulfil this role you need all-round abilities - passing, tackling, vision and tenacity.

Having been privileged enough to see Fabregas' debut in the Reserves, I can confirm those qualities have always been apparent. The only difference is the level at which he is operating these days.

For Arsenal, he is now the principal corner-taker on both flanks and takes almost all of the long-range free-kicks.

He also elbowed his way in to the Spanish side during their success Euro 2008 campaign and his shoot-out winning penalty in the Quarter-Final against Italy illustrated the amount of responsibility resting on his relatively young shoulders.

Of course there were many factors behind the success of the previously underachieving Spain this summer. But, along with Fernando Torres, Fabregas is leading a new, different generation, one that has already achieved success at a young age and is now cauterised against the white heat of international competition.

Something similar is needed at Arsenal next season if he wants to match international honours with Club ones. Everyone knows Wenger's side is young, developing and, on the basis of last season's table, closing in on Manchester United and Chelsea. However their points tally still left them third.

With Henry gone, Fabregas became the player to look to last season and he delivered. Yet now his job has gone beyond even that. He may not be captain but Fabregas will be charged with bringing out the best in himself and those around him next season. It is a difficult trick to pull off because as the pivotal player in the side he'll be targeted for special attention.

But all the evidence of his career so far suggests he’ll be more than able to cope.

Peter Hill-Wood on Adebayor and Hleb sale

2008-07-07T12:33:00.000+05:30

Arsenal have warned Barcelona and Milan that they have no intention of selling Emmanuel Adebayor, but Alexander Hleb would appear to be heading for the exit door.

Adebayor has caused consternation at The Emirates by demanding a huge pay hike following his superb season, with his comments alerting Milan and Barcelona to his situation.

Gunners chief Arsene Wenger has expressed frustration with the state of the transfer market, suggesting the balance of power is in favour of the players, but if he demands Adebayor stays then the Frenchman will have the backing of his chairman.

"We want him to stay, definitely," Gunners chairman Peter Hill-Wood told The Daily Telegraph. "Adebayor still has a long time [three years] left on his contract, and we have absolutely no intention of releasing him from that contract.

"You want to keep your best players and Adebayor is one of those."

Belarus star Hleb is one of Arsenal’s better players, but it would appear The Gunners have conceded defeat in their attempts to retain his services.

Hleb has admitted he is frustrated with life in London and although interest in his services has cooled in recent weeks, Hill-Wood expects him to head for pastures new.

”Hleb has made it clear he wants to go,” Hill-Wood added. “I think maybe he will go.”

Hoyte dismisses talk of Villa switch

2008-07-07T10:09:00.000+05:30

Justin Hoyte has ruled out a move to Aston Villa because he remains in the plans of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

The 23-year-old started only two Premier League games last season and has been linked with a number of moves, but most frequently to Villa Park.

Hoyte’s route to the first team at Emirates Stadium has been waylaid by the outstanding form of Wenger’s first choice right back Bakary Sagna but the former England Under-21 international insists he has been given assurances by his manager.

“There are rumours every day but I am contracted to Arsenal,” said Hoyte.

“The boss has said great things about me, has good plans for me and I need to show him what I am capable of.”

Wenger admits that Arsenal have to keep selling

2008-07-06T15:14:00.001+05:30

"The strategy of the club is to sell every year and to buy less expensive players," he told the News of the World.

Manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that Arsenal intend to continue selling their prized assets for the next 17 years.

The Gunners sold Thierry Henry to Barcelona for over £16million last summer and re-invested £7.5m of that money on Croatia striker Eduardo.

This summer, Emmanuel Adebayor and Alexander Hleb have been linked with big-money moves away from the Emirates Stadium.

And Wenger has revealed Arsenal must continue to make a profit in the transfer market in order to cover the costs of their new stadium.

"We manage at Arsenal to maintain all our football ambitions - national and European - while having to free up - for 17 more years - an annual surplus of £24m to pay for our stadium.

"The club's strategy is to favour the policy of youngsters ahead of stars and to count on the collective quality of our game."

Adebayor signed a new long-term deal with Arsenal last summer but is looking for a significant wage increase to stay at the club.

Barcelona have already bid £24m for the Togo international, who cost the Gunners in the region of £3m from Monaco in January 2006, while Milan are also interested in the 24-year-old striker.

Wenger also voiced his frustration at the current state of the transfer system, which he feels encourages in-form players to seek more lucrative deals elsewhere rather than honour their existing contract.

"If I had the power to change anything basic in football, it would be the transfer system which makes mercenaries of players," he added.

"If they are bad ones, they stay and, if they are good, they think only of leaving.

"I have fought for them to earn a very good living, but I impose respect for their contract upon them."

Nasri to sign in 10 days

2008-07-04T21:17:00.001+05:30

Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri should complete his transfer to Arsenal in around '10 days', according to the player's agent.

The playmaker has been strongly linked with a move to Emirates Stadium, with manager Arsene Wenger a keen admirer of Nasri's quality.

A deal had reportedly been struck towards the end of June after the player's official website announced the France international had secured his transfer to North London.

However, the statement proved to be premature, and was subsequently removed, sparking confusion over the progress of the switch.

Since then, Marseille have wrapped up the signing of Hatem Ben Arfa from Lyon - a move which has reportedly paved the way for Nasri's transfer to go ahead.

And the 21-year-old's agent, Jean-Pierre Bernes, has explained that he expects Nasri to seal his move to Arsenal when he returns from his holidays.

"He is on his holidays. It (the transfer) will be made when he will be back, in about 10 days," said Bernes.

Arsenal Season shape-up

2008-07-04T21:16:00.001+05:30

What's happened so far

It all began with a Frenchman. The speculation over Mathieu Flamini's future dragged raggedly on the road into the marginally warmer months before, on 5th May, the seemingly inevitable happened and Arsenal lost last season's surprise package to Milan. It was a bitter pill to swallow for Wenger ahead of what would turn out to be a challenging summer at Emirates Stadium.

Just over a fortnight later, it was confirmed that supporters will finally see Mexico international Carlos Vela in the red and white of Arsenal after the 19-year-old was granted clearance to play for the club in the 2008/09 season following three separate loan spells in Spain.

Then came a second exit, but this time it was of the expected variety. Veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann penned a deal with Bundesliga side Stuttgart; a move which in turn saw last season's first-choice Manuel Almunia secure the No.1 jersey again ahead of the forthcoming campaign.

May and June were largely filled with the aftermath of ice-cream enthusiast Alexander Hleb's meeting with Internazionale officials, as a number of other clubs came out of the woodwork expressing their appetite to secure the signature of the Belarus international.

The routine courting from Spain of Cesc Fabregas came and went, before Wenger continued with his policy of snapping up promising youth via the coup of Cardiff City midfielder Aaron Ramsey, 17, who snubbed offers from Manchester United and Everton.

Then came a tale of two U-turns, the first involving Samir Nasri. Among a disorientating maze of names, it was Nasri's link to North London that seemed to hold genuine threads of truth. Cue 23rd June when the Marseille playmaker's official website made a boo-boo, prematurely announcing that his switch to The Gunners had been rubber-stamped. The statement was swiftly retracted.

Emmanuel Adebayor was next to perform his very own 180. On 27th June, the African striker addressed the world's press, in that unmistakably zealous discourse, confirming his intention to see out the remaining three years of his contract. Relief for Gunners fan, albeit short-lived relief. For just an hour later there he was having a chinwag with Sky Sports News reporter Bryan Swanson, explaining that he will have sit-down-talks with the club in the coming days. Tut-tut.

What they need

Stability and loyalty. With the summer's headlines dominated by want-away players, who are finding life a struggle on £50,000-a-week, Wenger needs to strain his squad of the players he deems uncommitted to the task in hand, and in turn put right three seasons of pretty football but empty-handed nothingness with the reported £20million he has at his disposal.

A towering, no-nonsense centre-back would prove fruitful as it seems that Kolo Toure and William Gallas struggle when partnered together. Philippe Senderos' mixed bag of a career means a fresh recruit would work wonders in patching up Arsenal's weariness when dealing with the long ball.

Wide-men. With Hleb all-but vacated the bustle of North London, and Tomas Rosicky the epitome of fragility, the weight falls on the young shoulders of improving Theo Walcott and Emmanuel Eboue (a player that I feel offers less than little).

If Gilberto leaves then fresh guts in centre-midfield are required with the latest name to be thrown into the hat Werder Bremen's Amaury Bischoff. The French-born 21-year-old would be a typical signing from Wenger; a player very few would have even heard of, but a player fans will be hoping can have the same impact as the likes of last summer's unexpected additions Bacary Sagna and Eduardo.

What they'll get

Much hinges on whether Wenger deems it essential to replace Mathieu Flamini - who dovetailed with maestro Cesc Fabregas last term - with a fresh recruit, potentially Bischoff, or a promotion from within. Next season may see the Frenchman utilise the leggy Abou Diaby in his preferred central role.

In the early flutterings of the transfer chat, Wenger had hinted he would strengthen defensively, but he has since commented that this is an area he is content with. Wenger is a shrewd manipulator of the market, though, and it would be foolish to completely rule out an acquisition in this department.

The capture of Nasri seems a matter of when rather than if, so it is a case of distinguishing fact from fiction among the remaining smoke and mirrors in a bid to predict what else might occur. As mentioned, Wenger is an unpredictable fellow, and so often he springs a surprise that initially bewilders you but then grows on you in time.

Adebayor's situation is a peculiar one, with the player to-ing and fro-ing by the hour. The interested parties, Barcelona and Milan, are expected to have to pay a fee in the region of £30million for his services. Expect a replacement if the striker is shown the door.

Wenger eyes 'domination'

2008-07-04T21:14:00.000+05:30

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes his side are capable of achieving 'domination'.

The Gunners hit the ground running last season, and stormed to the top of the Premier League table.

However, their campaign deteriorated towards the latter stages as Chelsea and Manchester United gained momentum to leave Arsenal empty-handed for a third successive season.

But Wenger, who previously guided Arsenal to a 49-game unbeaten league run, feels his squad have the potential to continue their recent progress and claim glory in the 2008/09 term.

"At the end of the season I just told the players to go on holiday, forget about it for a few weeks, and be ready to come back with a new desire and new hope for next season," Wenger told the official Arsenal magazine.

"I feel the togetherness is there, the desire is there, and the quality is there. They have very good ingredients. We have done extremely well.

"We had 68 points last year, and we had 83 this season, so we made a big improvement.

"We just want to make another improvement next year, and if we can manage that improvement, what will follow naturally is domination."

I'm not about to take over at Arsenal - insists billionaire Kroenke

2008-07-02T18:45:00.000+05:30

Stan Kroenke has assured Arsenal's hierarchy that he has 'no intention' of buying control of the club even though he is preparing to take a seat on the board.

The American billionaire, who owns 12 per cent of the shares, also insisted he is 'very confident' that football can eventually become as popular in the United States as baseball and basketball.

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood says the two parties are close to announcing the tycoon's place among the club's group of core directors.

'It has certainly been talked about and it will happen sooner rather than later, although the details have not been finalised,' said Hill-Wood, who denied that a Kroenke takeover of Arsenal is now inevitable.

'I don't think he has any intention,' he told the Daily Telegraph . 'In the long term, in 10 years' time, he may take a different view. Things might change. He is certainly committed to not taking over the club.'

Kroenke owns or controls American football, baseball and ice hockey teams, as well as owning the Colorado Rapids soccer club but Hill-Wood is happy to work with him.

He said: 'He is quiet, not ostentatious He could be a very good ally and colleague. There is some logic in him getting close to us. He is a sensible man who is a sportsperson and has got some expertise in his business and that has helped him to develop a fanbase there [in Colorado].

'He is very confident football can be as popular [in the United States] as American football, basketball and baseball. Whether it will, I have my doubts.'

The American will not, though, be involved in Arsenal's search for a new chief executive. 'That may have happened by the time he gets on board,' said Hill-Wood, who added that the board will interview 'about a dozen' candidates and hinted that the CEO could come from outside football.

'He must be a competent businessman who has got the ability to relate to the different stakeholders: the fans, the shareholders, the board and the staff.'

Wenger - Patience to pay off

2008-07-02T15:05:00.002+05:30

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels the club could be set to end their search for silverware.

The Gunners are without a trophy since they defeated Manchester United on penalties in the 2005 FA Cup final.

Last season, despite an impressive beginning to the campaign, Arsenal faltered at the final stages to end a third term empty-handed.

But Wenger is sure the club's patience in youth will soon pay dividends as he looks ahead to the 2008/09 season.

"In life you need to be patient to get to the very top," Wenger said in The Daily Telegraph.

"I still believe we have created something special. When you are a winner you come back."

Arsenal are on the verge of signing Amaury Bischoff

2008-07-02T15:01:00.005+05:30

Amaury Bischoff says he is set to join Arsenal after turning down a new contract at Werder Bremen.

The French-born midfielder has had his career tracked by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger since he was a youngster with Strasbourg.

He moved to Bremen in 2005, but has made just one senior appearance for the club against Celta Vigo in the Uefa Cup in 2007.

The 21-year-old was offered a new deal to stay in the Bundesliga, but claims he was unable to turn down the chance to move to Arsenal.

"Bremen was superb, but Arsenal is a huge opportunity for me," Bischoff told Bild.

"Wenger has known me since my time at Strasbourg and believes in my quality. He trusts me to be in the first team.

"Wenger has not put me under any pressure. He said, 'Take all the time you need'."

Bremen's managing director Klaus-Dieter Fischer admits the Bundesliga club were keen for Bischoff, who has struggled with injuries in the past, to stay.

Fischer told the club's official website: "We would be happy to have Amaury, but he has decided to take up a new challenge.

"We wish him well and thank him for the past three years."

Milan withdraw from Adebayor race

2008-07-02T14:59:00.000+05:30

Milan have conceded defeat in the race to sign Emmanuel Adebayor as they cannot match his asking price, with the development seemingly leaving Barcelona in pole position to sign the Arsenal striker.

After scoring 30 goals for The Gunners last season, Adebayor has warned Arsene Wenger he will leave the club if his wage demands – reportedly in the region of £120,000-per week – are not met by the North London club.

While Wenger insists publicly that there is no chance Adebayor will leave the club, the player’s outburst at the weekend has led to intense speculation over his future in The Premier League with both Milan and Barcelona stating their interest in the Togo star.

Adebayor hinted at the weekend that a move to Barcelona would be preferable given their participation in the Champions League and Milan have now made his quandary much easier by withdrawing their interest in protest at his possible transfer fee.

Rossoneri vice president Adriano Galliani rued the fact that Serie A sides cannot compete at the top end of the market when announcing that Adebayor was no longer a target.

“Adebayor is overridden by continuous requests for €45 million (£35.6 million), these figures are impossible for clubs in Italy,” Galliani told the Italian press.

“In fact, the top footballers in the world do not come here any more.

“When big clubs like Barcelona and Chelsea arrive it is impossible to compete, because they have a much more advantageous fiscal situation.”

Fabregas is hopeful that Hleb and Adebayor will stay at Emirates Stadium.

2008-07-02T14:52:00.002+05:30

The Gunners' pair have been linked with a move to Barcelona as Josep Guardiola rebuilds his recently-acquired squad.

Fabregas, who was an important piece in Spain's Euro 2008 campaign, has said that he prefers that Hleb and Adebayor stay with the team and help overhaul Manchester United in the Premier League.

"Hleb and Adebayor? I hope that when I come back from vacations I will find them at Arsenal, because they are two very important players," he said upon his arrival in Barcelona to celebrate the Euro 2008 trophy.

"I hope that will stay with us, but they are big boys already so they can decide on their future."

Hleb arrived from VfB Stuttgart in 2005, while Adebayor joined one year later, coming from AS Monaco. Both have come on in leaps and bounds over the last 12 months, comfortably stepping into the void left by Freddie Ljungberg and Thierry Henry.

Arsene Wenger is determined to keep both of them despite some rather explosive utterances from their agents.

Clichy's defensive game has really come on'

2008-07-01T16:02:00.000+05:30

The French defender went from strength to strength last season after putting his injury problems behind him. He proved himself to be one of the finest all-round full-backs in Europe and was unfortunate to miss out on a place in France's Euro 2008 squad.

Here, four former Gunners give their assessment of Arsenal's left back - Arsenal TV analyst Stewart Robson and Arsenal TV Online co-commentators Kenny Sansom, Terry Neill and Nigel Winterburn.

Stewart Robson

"I think he's an excellent player and I think he was very unlucky to miss out on Euro 2008 with France. I think he's as good a defensive left back as I've seen in terms of one-on-one situations. If you're a coach you tell defenders to get out there as the ball travels, slow down as the ball arrives at the winger's feet, then jockey and try and show the attacker one way. Gael throws that out of the window and gets there as quick as he can, runs out at 100 miles an hour, keeps on going and usually wins the ball off the winger. Wingers are so worried by his pace and the amount of pressure Gael puts on them, they can't get their head up to know what's going on, so they get their head down, they have to concentrate on the ball, and they end up going backwards at times. Clichy has improved his attacking play too. He needs to score one or two goals but his crossing is much better and his link-up play is excellent."

Nigel Winterburn

"Gael has shown the ultimate consistency. He loves getting forward with the ball and what has been impressive for me is that the defensive side of the game has really come on in the last year. Again he is still very young and will keep on improving. I think Gael is a different type of full-back to what I was when I played. I was defensive and then got forward in support, whereas Gael is more comfortable running with the ball, bursting forward. He likes to get forward whereas I would overlap or support from behind. The most important thing as a full-back is defending and he has improved that incredibly."

Kenny Sansom

"Fantastic. The fact he loves to win, he is aggressive and if things are not working out he gets onto his other team-mates which is important. I think he is pretty special. Of the last eight Arsenal left-backs, Bob McNab, Sammy Nelson and the like; I think Clichy is the only one not have played at international level. That puzzles me, he should be in the France team I think. The one little thing, I think he makes that odd mistake and can get caught. They are only little but he seems to get punished.

"He is so quick, fit, loves bombing forward and loves a challenge. I think one thing that really impressed me was in one of the European games a couple of years ago. In the first five minutes the winger went past him but from that point on, he didn’t get past him. For me, the same thing happened playing for England Schoolboys aged 15 at Wembley against Germany. Their winger has sprinted past me but then never got past me again. My determination made me suss him straight away. That is one of Clichy’s strengths."

Terry Neill

"I could not believe the French left him out. He had a marvellous season, he's up there with the best in the world and I don't say that lightly. I suppose in a sense it's good for Arsene Wenger because Gael will get a decent break rather than coming back tired and worn out and not able to take part in a full pre-season. What impresses me about him? His pure ability, his composure on the ball, his control, his passing, his pace. Everything. All-round, and his fellow full-back, the two of them are great athletes with great spirit, and exceptionally talented on the ball."

Fabregas dedicates Spain's European success to Arsenal fans

2008-06-30T21:03:00.001+05:30

Cesc Fabregas dedicated his Euro 2008 winners' medal to Arsenal fans and is determined to win them a trophy of their own next season.

The midfielder helped Spain beat Germany 1-0 and believes it makes up for the misery of missing out on silverware with the Gunners last term.

Arsenal had at one stage seemed on course for the Treble and Fabregas still feels the pain of that setback as well as the 2006 Champions League Final defeat to Barcelona.

But he believes Spain's attractive style of football - reminiscent of the Gunners - proves Arsene Wenger's men are on the right track.

He said: 'This was the happiest day of my life as a professional footballer.

'But this is also for the Arsenal fans that have been suffering a lot this year.

'For them, at least one player has won something. It is for them.

'It also makes up for Paris. I can see there is a massive difference between losing and winning in a final.

'Even if they say being a finalist is important, there is no way you can replace the feeling of winning.

'I finally made something at a young age, I never expected it to be with Spain.

'Now I want to do it with Arsenal.'

Fabregas can see a lot of comparisons between Spain and Arsenal, not least in the way both teams simply refuse to play a longball game and always stick to their footballing principles.

He said: 'I haven't seen in a long time a team playing such beautiful football get a trophy as big as this.

'Now at Arsenal we have more or less the same quality of game so hopefully the football will also get better and better for Arsenal.'

Clichy is second in Player of the Season poll

2008-06-30T20:58:00.001+05:30

Two Fridays ago, Roma manager Luciano Spalletti was reported as saying: "It would please me a great deal to see Gael Clichy in a Roma shirt. We will have to wait and see what develops."

Little did he know that, at about the same time, the finishing touches were being put to the press release announcing the 22-year-old was committing his future to Emirates Stadium.

Of course, Clichy had no control over this little scenario but the way it played out was typical of his Arsenal career so far - unfussy, committed and professional.

Left back is hardly a marquee position but the Frenchman has made it as eye-catching as possible. He surges forwards at every opportunity but is rarely beaten at the back. He is slightly built but hardly ever seems to be muscled off the ball. He is committed and determined but never shows petulance.

In a world of 24/7 football coverage, it is easy for the quotable, ‘look-at-me’ players to take all the attention. Clichy is the opposite of that (though he does give an intelligent interview) so it is a testament to his quiet competence that the Frenchman is now getting his fair share of the plaudits.

Speaking at the end of the campaign after Clichy had been voted into the PFA Premier League Team, Arsène Wenger said the defender’s main achievement last season had been to remain injury-free. It was an interesting comment.

The former Cannes man featured in 49 games, including every match in the Champions League and Premier League. That was more than any other Arsenal player. He had made himself an automatic selection in the left back position, like Nigel Winterburn, Ashley Cole and Kenny Sansom did in previous decades. And that is very good company.

Yet Wenger’s point was valid. If you remember, Clichy was still out with a long-term injury when Cole was sold in August 2006. Justin Hoyte and William Gallas filled in until he returned.

Therefore this was his first full season as first choice in his position and he used it to make a giant step forward.

Both Clichy and Cole had been absent for much of the 2006/07 campaign. But before that, the Englishman had been considered the world’s best in his position. Now you could start building a case for Clichy.

That said, he may be the best left back in the Premier League, but he still seems to be the third best in France. Somehow Eric Abidal and Patrice Evra were named ahead of him for Euro 2008.

After the team’s abject performance this summer, wholesale changes are expected and so finally Clichy could be set for a full debut.

Should that come, inevitably there will be a learning curve in the international game. He has certainly gone through that with Arsenal over the past 18 months.

Perversely, his errors have been memorable; the kind of thing worth making a mental note about given their rarity. Both came in away games — Birmingham and Manchester City — and allowed the home teams to equalise.

At 22, this sort of thing is inevitable. The key is to recover and Clichy’s level did not drop in the games to follow.

The first game of next season will see Clichy bring up his Premier League century. He has a total of 146 matches under his belt already and, pre-supposing his form and fitness are maintained over the next few years, he could be overtaking some very famous Arsenal names in the appearance tables during the years to come. Considered, courteous and articulate, he also had the potential to captain the side.

In many ways, Clichy is the model footballer and I think he’ll be genuinely touched to be thought of so highly by the Arsenal supporters.

Fabregas is crowned European champion

2008-06-30T14:30:00.001+05:30

Cesc Fabregas is a European champion.

The 21-year-old was part of the Spain side that, on Sunday night in Vienna, comprehensively outplayed Germany to win Euro 2008 and scoop their first major title in 44 years.

Cesc celebrates at the final whistle

Fabregas gets the party started!

Cesc with the King of Spain

Cesc holds aloft the famous trophy

Fabregas and Spain captain Casillas

Fabregas celebrates with the fans

Arsenal's 2008/9 prospects

2008-06-30T14:20:00.000+05:30

Last summer the loss of Thierry Henry foretold of a season of struggle ahead for Arsenal who promptly began the year in fine style, racing to the top of the Premier League before a third placed finish ended the season as a disappointing failure.

A commitment to playing the game as it should engenders affection from neutrals and though they have failed to win a trophy in three seasons they remain a regular fixture of the big four.


	Dan the man: Daniel Guiza top scored in Spain last season

The move to Emirates Stadium should now be reaping rewards in increased revenues though Arsene Wenger's transfer budget is less than his peers, the club relying on the Frenchman's acumen in the transfer market to sustain a challenge for honours.

Arsenal will undoubtedly be out spent by their main rivals, with as many quality players leaving as joining, and a third placed finish again next year will probably represent some sort of success.

Manager:

Arsene Wenger.

Harry Redknapp may be considered the consummate wheeler dealer but Wenger's ability to find a continental bargain is unparalleled. Tottenham have spent double, in net terms, than Arsenal whilst he has been in charge. A football purist who nurtures young talent, he will never compromise his ideals as to how the game should be played.

Last season:

3rd - 83 points

The pot:

Arsenal are the relative paupers at the top end of the game. The recent move to Emirates Stadium may help in that respect over time though with the club still in the hands of a mainly English board the spending power of foreign investors is something Wenger can only dream of. That dream may become reality if Alisher Usmanov, the Uzbekistani multi-billionaire who owns 24.9 per cent of the club, is allowed to buy up more shares. The sale of Emmanuel Adebayor will leave Wenger with some money to play with.

What they want / need:

The long -term injury to Eduardo as well as Robin van Persie's regular aches and pains left Arsenal desperately short up front at the end of last season. With Emmanuel Adebayor set to leave, probably to AC Milan the need to buy in that area is paramount. An extra centre-back is a must as is a defensive midfielder to replace the departing Mathiue Flamini.

Who their targets are:

Samir Nasri - the latest 'next Zidane' is all but an Arsenal player with Valencia midfield hatchet man Raul Albiol also high on Wenger's wanted list to play alongside him, should the more highly rated - and much more expensive - Miguel Veloso of Sporting Lisbon prove out of reach.

In the striking department Daniel Guiza, who has impressed for Spain at Euro 2008 and top scored in the Spanish league with Real Mallorca last season, is looking for a move and would be a cheaper option than Mario Gomez of Stuttgart, who had a fine season for the German club despite an indifferent Euro 2008. Should Wenger want proven Premier League experience Peter Crouch is available for around £10 million whilst Roque Santa Cruz could be lured from Blackburn for a similar fee.

Special One:

Wenger believes that Andrei Arshavin would fit in nicely at Arsenal due to the quick pass and move sensibilities of both Zenit St Petersburg and Russia, though Barcelona look the favourites to sign him

Expect to see:

Lots and lots of pretty football and passes strung together but nothing won as Wenger bloods another raft of talented youngsters in an ongoing process of team-building. And a 7-1 gubbing of one of the weaker teams in the league.

Don't expect to see:

Arsenal going through the season unbeaten.