In a recent report, Bild (subscription required) has tipped on-loan Hertha Berlin midfielder Matteo Guendouzi to leave his parent club Arsenal permanently next summer. The German news outfit has revealed that the odds are on the Berlin outfit’s favour to make the French youngster’s loan deal from the Gunners permanent at the end of this campaign (translated by Sport Witness).
Guendouzi’s Excellent Loan Stay In Germany Thus Far
The Poissy-born talent has made a bright start to his loan spell in German football where he has done well to produce a handful of impressive displays at the centre of Bruno Labbadia’s midfield. Guendouzi has registered one goal and one assist in six matches for the Berlin giants this term in the Bundesliga.
The 21-year-old deserves credit for making an impact at both ends of the field as he is averaging 1.3 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.7 shots and 1.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in top-flight football. He has even distributed the ball relatively well in midfield after completing 87.7% of his attempted passes in the French first division (stats via whoscored).
Guendouzi has already shown that he is maturing as a player during his time in Germany, but there are some serious question marks over his long-term future at Arsenal where his contract runs out at the end of next season.
What Does The French Midfield Ace Offer On The Pitch?
Guendouzi is a well-rounded midfielder as he can contribute by doing a bit of everything at the centre of the park. He has got a terrific work-ethic and can make some driving runs with the ball in the opposition half. The Frenchman is proficient at keeping the ball moving for his side and possesses a wide range of passes in his locker. He seems to be getting better with each season, so Hertha will do well to seal his permanent capture when his loan spell expires next summer.
Should Mikel Arteta Sanction Guendouzi’s Permanent Exit Next Summer?
At the moment, Arsenal can benefit from a mobile and hungry player like Guendouzi as their current midfield options have often let them down. The likes of Granit Xhaka and Mohamed Elneny have all flattered to deceive with their performances this season. Mikel Arteta needs more bite and steel in his midfield if he wants to build towards a brighter future at the Emirates Stadium.
Therefore, the Gunners boss should consider giving Guendouzi a chance, especially if he continues to impress during his current loan spell at Berlin. It would be unwise to let the French starlet leave permanently when he is showing a lot of signs of improvement. The way things are going, Arteta can expect a better version of Guendouzi when he returns to North London at the end of this campaign.
