Fabio Vieira returns to his former club on Wednesday night (Picture: Getty Images)
Mikel Arteta is pleased to have Fabio Vieira back in the squad after injury, but even more happy that he has provided insider information on his former club Porto before Arsenal face them on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
The 23-year-old has missed a lot of the season due to a groin injury, last playing in the Premier League in November, but he is back in the squad as the Gunners begin their Champions League knockout phase campaign away at Porto.
Arsenal signed Vieira from the Portuguese side in 2022, making 46 appearances for the club since then, but it is his knowledge rather than his skills that will be especially useful this week.
‘Regarding Fabio really happy with him but at the same time sad because it’s been a tough period for him,’ said Arteta at a press conference on Tuesday.
‘Especially with the last injury when he had some momentum and performances he got injured, that broke up his rhythm, just like last season. He’s a player with enormous talent and we will get the best out of him.
‘He was really pushing because he wanted to be here, that’s for sure. Having an insider, someone who has experience as someone who has lived the culture and the club.
Mikel Arteta wants every advantage he can gain ahead of the huge clash (Picture: Getty Images)
‘It’s very important in Europe to understand the context of the game. Where you’re going, what type of club they are, what type of atmosphere you will be facing.
‘He gave us some important information that’s relevant for us.’
Commenting on what he expects from any Portuguese side, Arteta said: ”They are first of all very passionate which is the first ingredient that you have to know.
‘Their academies are one of the best in Europe. It tells you the story about the culture and how they are raised.’
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