Interview

Fabio – I can’t wait to get started

Our new midfielder Fabio Vieira has said he is eager to get going at his ‘new home’ after completing his switch from Portuguese champions Porto.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was a regular for his boyhood club, who lost just once all season in the league, contributing 14 assists from 27 appearances, and winning Primeira Liga Player of the Month in April.

His form attracted the attention of Mikel Arteta, and the club moved swiftly to secure the services of the Portugal Under-21 international.

After signing the deal, Fabio sat down with us to discuss the transfer, his style of play and why he chose the Gunners. Read on for the full interview. 

Fabio, welcome to Arsenal! How excited are you to be making this move?

I’m thrilled, of course. This is an important step forward in my career. Arsenal is a huge and historic club, so I’m delighted to be here at my new home.

It all happened very quickly. Could you tell us about the process?

It certainly was a fast process. It was something that I was drawn to. Meeting the people at the club was a real positive for me. I’m loving it here and I’m here to give the team my all.

Which factors helped you make your decision?

As I said, Arsenal is a historic English club. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everyone knows that Arsenal are a fantastic team. That was one of the main factors behind me choosing Arsenal. I really like the way the team plays and I can’t wait to get started.

Have you had a chance to meet Mikel Arteta yet? What has he said to you? 

I haven’t met him in person yet, but I have spoken to him. He told me he couldn’t wait to start working with me and get to know my family and me.

Can you tell us a bit about your style of play? 

I’m an attacking player who looks to find space between the lines to be able to finish off moves either with assists or by scoring goals. I think those are the main attributes that Arsenal fans can expect from me. I’ll always give my all for the team.

You are known as a creative and attack-minded player. Do you have a favourite goal or performance so far?

No, I don’t have a favourite goal. My three years at Porto were very important for me. People know it’s my club, so they were all important.

What are your strengths and what do you want to develop here?

My strengths are my passing and shooting ability. I think those are my main strengths. As for what I need to work on, I’d say the physical side of my game.

You are a regular for Portugal Under-21s, often alongside Nuno Tavares. Have you spoken to him about signing for Arsenal?

I’ve had the chance to speak to him. He told me a bit about the club. There are fantastic people here who’ve helped me with everything I’ve needed, which is key.

Last season, you faced Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah at the Under-21 European Championships. Do you know much about your new team-mates?

I got to face them at the Euros. They are both quality players. Arsenal have top players and I’m now here to help the team reach its goals.

What else do you know about Arsenal’s history? What do you like about the club? 

I know some very famous players have played here. Some big stars, global legends of the game, such as Bergkamp, Thierry Henry, Cazorla and Fabregas. I remember them well. They were players who had so much presence on the pitch.

Are there any current Arsenal players that you particularly admire?

I’m a fan of Bukayo Saka and Smith Rowe, too. I really like the way they play. Odegaard is quite similar to me.

Can you tell us about your life away from football? What are your hobbies and interests?

I’m a home-loving guy. I just like staying at home and I don’t really like going out. I prefer to relax at home with my girlfriend.

Have you been to London much before? What are you looking forward to doing in England in your free time?

I don’t know. I haven’t had the chance to get to know London yet. I can’t wait for that and to begin the new season here. I’ll certainly arrange things to do, enjoy and pass the time.

You are still young to be making this move, do you feel ready?

Yes, I feel it’s the right move in my career. I think it’ll be really good for me and I have no regrets about it. I’m thrilled to be here.

And finally, what are your hopes and ambitions for your time at Arsenal?

I hope we can achieve the goals that have been set out for the season. We all have to be here for one another and to help the club achieve them.

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