Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi joined Hertha Berlin on a season-long loan deal on transfer deadline day. Guendouzi was linked with an exit at Emirates stadium after fallen out with manager Mikel Arteta.
English Premier League giants opted to not include a buy an option at the end of the loan next year. It will prove good decision by management as the player is yet to reach his best, regular playing time will do that.
Matteo Guendouzi has now explained his reason to leave Arsenal in his official statement after joining Hertha Berlin.
“The discussions with those responsible convinced me, “I don’t just want to develop personally, but help the whole association to take the next step. I feel like Hertha and Berlin! “ – Guendouzi on leaving Arsenal for Hertha Berlin
Hertha Berlin general manager Michael Preetz is excited to secure the signing of Matteo Guendouzi. He also expressed his thoughts on squad improvement due to Frenchman’s arrival at Olympiastadion.
“With Mattéo we get a player who, despite his young age, with his experience of almost 60 Premier League games, makes our midfield even more flexible, He brings aspects that further improve our game.” – Michael Preetz on Guendouzi arrival
The 21-year-old will be wearing the number 8 jersey at Hertha Berlin but have to wait for his debut due to an international break.
Mesut Ozil’s message to Guendouzi after joining the German side
Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil posted an Instagram post on his official account, congratulating Guendouzi. Ozil challenged his fellow player to prove his worth in Germany and told he will be missed at Emirates Stadium.
“Mi Bebeee, all the best for you in Germany, “Show them that you’re a great football player. Will miss you here Bro.” – Ozil’s message to Guendouzi
Both Ozil and Guendouzi have failed to make a single appearance this season, both lost the trust of the manager. The French midfielder was involved in an ugly incident against Brighton and Hove Albion in June last Season. Video emerged of him grabbing Neal Maupay by the throat at end of the match.
FA investigated the incident but chose to not take any action against Guendouzi at that time. But Arteta axed the player from training last season for that incident. Guendouzi returned to training this season but failed to make the matchday squad.
Hertha Berlin move will be good for all the parties involved as players needed regular game time to return to the national team. Lucas Torreira also departed Arsenal to join Atletico Madrid on loan to gain regular game time. Arsenal has completed the signing of Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid on transfer deadline day.
