According to Daily Mail, Willian is closing in on an Arsenal exit. He is set for a switch back to his homeland, with Corinthians in talks with the north London giants over a permanent deal. The two clubs are already in advanced stages of negotiations and the move could be officiated soon, with the Gunners desperate to get him off the wage bill.
Willian’s Disastrous Season At Arsenal
Willian joined Arsenal last summer on a free transfer from Chelsea. He was brought in to supplement an attacking setup that lacked experience and pedigree at the highest level of football.
However, after a complete season at Emirates, the Brazilian has turned into a massive liability for the club. His performances have been far from impressive, with the winger adding virtually nothing to the table.
Indeed, the former Chelsea star lacks any ideas going forward and is often unable to take on defenders. His lack of creativity resulted in Arsenal emerging as one of the least effective teams in the final third last season.
As such, Willian himself managed only 16 starts for the club in the Premier League last season, scoring only one goal. The veteran attacker didn’t fare any better in other competitions either, failing to score a single goal in nine Europa League appearances.
A Big Mistake By Mikel Arteta?
Willian’s struggles at Emirates was symbolic of Arsenal’s struggles under Mikel Arteta last season. The Spaniard, though, has shown a great intent to undergo a complete overhaul in the attacking department.
Willian’s departure, in that regard, could be an excellent start. As mentioned earlier, he has been nothing short of liability and his hefty £180,000k per week wage bill has crippled the club’s financial powers, to an extent.
As such, the Brazilian’s departure could serve as a massive boost for Mikel Arteta’s side this summer. It would enable him to fund the move for yet another winger, preferably a younger one who can offer more freshness and creativity in the final third.
Moreover, Willian’s sale should ease the way for younger academy players to gain a more prominent role in the first team next season. Given the struggles of some of the more established players in the side, it won’t be surprising to see Arsenal producing yet another talent like Bukayo Saka or Emile Smith Rowe this season.
