Interview

Wenger - Where Mkhitaryan will fit in our team

Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Arsène Wenger
Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Arsène Wenger

In Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s first Arsenal interview, the playmaker spoke of his versatility. “I don’t stay in one position, I always try to move to create space to [support] my team-mates… I’m everywhere,” he told us.

Arsène Wenger spoke about the Armenia international after his pre-Chelsea press conference on Tuesday, discussing both why he was so keen for Mkhitaryan to join us, and where he sees the 29-year-old fitting in.

“He can play in different positions, but personally I see him first in a wide position, but I’m thinking about him a possibility to play through the middle,” the boss said.

“You are certain in our job of nothing, that’s absolutely sure. But you believe and I believe he has the qualities to do well, is a team player and our game is based on team attitude and movement and I think he can absorb the quantity of movement in our team.”

Mkhitaryan’s arrival adds to a squad already well equipped with attacking midfielders. So can they all fit into the starting XI?

“Certainly all no,” Wenger added. “Some will have to be in and out. But on the other hand, we have seen that Ramsey has been out many times, Wilshere as well, we play in many competitions. You have a number you can fit in.

“Some people need confidence and to feel security, but in football teams, there is a number that pushes you, a number that makes you asleep, and a number that paralyses you. 

“So you have to find the right number in each squad to give fair competition, but as well not be too much in administration, and not to have no chance at all, no matter what happens, to play.”

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