In a recent interview with Football.London, Arsenal head coach Unai Emery provided an update on Nacho Monreal’s future by claiming that the Spanish full-back could leave the North London club before the European transfer window slams shut on September 2nd. Emery shared his thoughts with Football.London and said, “He made a very big match, he’s a big professional for us.
“We need to speak in the next days. In Europe the transfer window isn’t finished.
“We are going to speak about all the situations and possibilities. It’s the reason I was speaking about, it’s not normal we finished two weeks ago and in Europe it finishes in the next week.
“The squad is not completely closed for us. Some players can leave. We cannot sign others. It depends a little the next days on how we can decide on some circumstances with some players.
“With Nacho one possibility is open, we are going to speak about that.”
Arsenal’s Monreal Dilemma This Summer
Monreal’s contract at the Emirates Stadium runs out at the end of this campaign. Hence, it makes sense for the Gunners to cash in on him before the European transfer deadline or else risk losing him for free next summer.
The Spaniard got a start against Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday, but he failed to pass the test as the Reds ran out 3-1 winners on the day. Monreal was not a guaranteed starter in Emery’s first-team last season, but he still managed to put in some memorable displays for the North London outfit.
What Does The Spanish Wingback Offer On The Field?
The 33-year-old featured in 36 matches for the Gunners in the previous term, scoring one goal while grabbing seven assists on all fronts. He has a wealth of experience of playing in England and Spain, so this could be the ideal time for him to seal a return back to his homeland before the transfer deadline.
Monreal is currently in the twilight years of his playing career, but he can still be a productive full-back down the left flank. The Spanish veteran can link up play well with others around him and tends to whip in a few inviting crosses into the opposition penalty box.
Should Emery Part Ways With Monreal This Summer?
At 33, the former Malaga defensive ace still has a few years left in him to play at a high level. Therefore, Arsenal should consider keeping him at North London for the time being as they are currently short in numbers in the left-back position with Kieran Tierney out injured. Sead Kolasinac is the only other senior left-back at the club so Emery will be wise to retain Monreal’s services for the 2019-20 campaign. Let us also not forget, that he is very useful filling in as a centre half as well.
