Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has told Football.London that it is about time that Willian starts showing his quality.
Arteta made the comments following Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Newcastle United at home in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday evening.
The performance of Willian was far from impressive and was criticised by Gunners legend Ian Wright.
Arteta has defended Willian for his sub-par performance and has made it clear that he has full confidence in the Brazil international, who can operate as a winger or an attacking midfielder.
However, the Spaniard has said that it is about time that the former Chelsea star shows just how good he is.
Arteta told Football.London about Willian: “Well, I think he was improving and improving. The other he day he came on really well against West Brom. He’s been out as well because he was ill, so he’s missed almost two weeks of training and football and today it was the first time that he started the game.
“He had some good moments and he had some other moments where he needed more help sometimes and some decisions weren’t the best. But we’re gonna keep trying with him. He’s showing in training how much he wants it. He’s got some highlights, and it’s about keeping the confidence on him. We know the player that he is and it’s about time to show it.”
The Arsenal boss added: “I think when the team is winning it’s easier, because it allows you a little bit more time to do that process. He needs to build those relationships with those players. Today he played in a slightly different position as well. We will get there.”
How did Willian play against Newcastle United?
Willian did well with corners, but in open play, the 32-year-old could not make a huge impact.
The Brazilian did not always make the right decisions and just seems unable to figure out how to get back to his best.
Willian took two shots and none was on target, played one key pass, had a pass accuracy of 83.9%, took 43 touches, made one tackle, and put in four crosses, according to WhoScored.
According to WhoScored, the Brazilian has provided three assists in 13 Premier League matches for Arsenal so far this season.
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