News

‘Campbell needs top-level experience’

Arsene Wenger believes Joel Campbell will benefit from gaining “experience at the top level” at Villarreal.

Arsenal announced on Wednesday that the Costa Rica forward will spend the rest of the season on loan with the La Liga side.

Campbell signed a new deal before the move, and the boss is hopeful Francis Coquelin will also commit his future to the club too.

"After six months, he worked very hard every day and didn’t get enough chances to play, so I wanted to give him a chance to continue to get experience at the top level."

“We have nothing to announce on Mikel Arteta,” he said. “On Coquelin, it’s 99 per cent sure that he will stay here.

“Joel has extended his contract so he will go to Villarreal and he needed games. Here was a bit obstructed for him because there were too many players in the same position.

“After six months, he worked very hard every day and didn’t get enough chances to play, so I wanted to give him a chance to continue to get experience at the top level.”

Having signed Krystian Bielik and Gabriel this month, Wenger says adding another face to his squad is unlikely.

“If I wake up in the morning and somebody’s stood in front of my door who is an exceptional player, I will open the door,” he said. “It looks very unlikely now. I can give you my address if you want!”

 

Joel Campbell in action against Galatasaray

 

See Full List

Fixtures & Results

Premier League
Ticket Info