Emmanuel Eboue On Arsenal And Incomings

It has been a monumental week for Arsenal, Mikel Arteta and his players. Following the 5-1 aggregate win over Real Madrid in the Champions League Quarter Final, Devang Prasad sat down with Emmanuel Eboue, former Gunners full-back, to discuss all things Arsenal.

The pair talked transfers, current form, contract talks and injuries.

Ødegaard, Martinelli and Potential Striking Options

Do you think Martin Ødegaard has regressed this season? Or Gabriel Martinelli, do you think he has regressed?

“To be honest, I don’t know what is going on with Ødegaard, but as the Arsenal captain and still being a young player, that is a very big job for you. As I said, Ødegaard is top class, a really good player. This year, he has been injured as well and when you come back from an injury it can be difficult.”

“That has happened for a lot of the Arsenal players, but they have to stay strong together and help each other. Odegaard is still a very good player and I believe in him. I know good things will happen for Arsenal when he play.”

Who should Arsenal prioritize – Gyokeres, Isak, Sesko or Cunha?

“If Arsenal can get Isak I will be very, very happy. Isak knows the league well and every season he scores goals. Isak scores every week. I will be very, very happy with Isak. He is a proper striker. When I see him play I think of Thierry Henry because of the way he scores. He takes his time in front of the goal. Class player. I love him.”

“Arsenal have money so they can and should buy him. I can only see Isak at Arsenal. When Newcastle play I watch them because of Isak. He scored every week and he’s best off at Arsenal.”

Contract Talks, Potential Incomings and Injuries

This could be Thomas Partey’s last season at Arsenal as his contract is up at the end of the season. Do you think the Gunners should renew his contract or do you think the arrival of Martin Zubimendi will offset his departure?

“If you ask Thomas Partey if he wants to stay at Arsenal he’ll say yes. As a player, your dream is to be happy at your club and that they want to renew your contract because you love the club and you want to win trophies.”

“But it’s not down to the players, it’s down to the club and I think it’s better to give Partey one or two more years.”

Arsenal have also been linked to Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao. Do you think they should get him and provide some competition or even an upgrade on Martinelli? Do you think he’s an upgrade?

“This year I’m not sure what’s wrong with Martinelli because I like him and last year he was very good. Him, Saka and Ødegaard. He might have some injuries.”

“I think if Arsenal have him it will be very good. Him on the left side and Saka on the right means Arsenal can do very, very, very good things next year. He’s a good player. Still very young but he’s not scared. Like Saka. When he has the ball, he attacks every time because he wants to score and make assists.”

And do you think Liverpool have been lucky that Arsenal suffered so many injuries this season?

“I don’t think Liverpool have been lucky at all. They’re always ready to fight for the league every season and it doesn’t matter who they’re up against. This year they did well to win the league even if Arsenal and City have had injuries. They’re in the top four every season. They’re a good team and a big club.”

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