'It's not the time to make decisions on Torreira'

It has been a tragic time for Lucas Torreira and his family in the wake of the news that his mother has passed away due to Covid-19.

Since then, quotes have emerged of our midfielder - currently on loan at Atletico Madrid - says he wishes to return to South America to play.

So what has been Mikel Arteta's reaction to the situation?

"Of course we contacted him," our manager said. "We have spoken to him and we know how difficult a time this is for him. He was really attached to his mum and he's really attached to his family.

"It's a hard time for him and emotionally there is a lot of thoughts that will go through his mind. When things are like that, it's not the moment to make decisions.

"I understand how he's feeling emotionally. He probably feels the need and responsibility to be closer to his family. But it's not the moment to make any decisions and it certainly is a decision that has to be made by different parties. Now, nothing is going to change. It's just an interview with some comments. Let's see what happens.

"We know that when you recruit a player from a foreign country, when they have that struggle sometimes to adapt to a new culture, a new language, a new way of doing things. This risk is there and then you have to be able to manage that risk and make the right decisions at the right time."