Nacho Monreal is bracing himself for a "completely different" experience in the Premier League - but he's confident he can adapt quickly.
The Spain international completed his transfer from Malaga to Arsenal this week as Arsène Wenger moved quickly to sign a reinforcement after losing Kieran Gibbs to a thigh injury.
Monreal has nine senior caps for the all-conquering Spanish national side but, like every newcomer to the Premier League, he will need time to find his feet. The 26-year-old believes he can settle in fast.
"I hope I can," he told Arsenal Player. "The Premier League is one of the strongest there is and everyone knows about it. It’s a completely different way of playing to the Spanish League - it’s a lot more physical, for example. As the days go by I’ll get used to things and I’ll give my all.
"Arsenal like to keep the ball, which is beneficial for me and I like this part of the team’s game. I love playing with the ball at my feet, short, sharp touches, and good movement.
"I think Arsenal do have certain elements of Spanish football philosophy. The Spanish people know that there are players of great quality in this team and I hope we can play good football."
Monreal, like Santi Cazorla, was part of the Malaga team that secured Champions League football for the first time in the club's history. Arsenal's latest signing will always have a soft spot for his former club.
"It’s always difficult leaving, going somewhere new and having to start again from scratch. However, there’s no point looking to the past"
"It was a great time for me," he said. "I was there for a year and a half and the fans were phenomenal in their support. Everything was there for me.
"It’s always difficult leaving, going somewhere new and having to start again from scratch. However, there’s no point looking to the past. I just want to thank them for everything they gave me and did for me. Now, a new chapter has begun for me, I’m fully focused and want to help Arsenal as best I can.
"I’m very happy to be here, I’ve really been looking forward to joining this great club and being part of the family here. It’s an experience I’m going to grasp as much as I can. I’m grateful for the welcome I’ve received and to be able to be a part of this great club."
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