Pablo Mari has confirmed he is returning to Arsenal this summer after a successful loan spell at Udinese – but has opened the door to a permanent exit. The defender has a contract at Arsenal until the summer of 2024.
Mari, 28, was used just three times during the first half of the season by Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard preferred Ben White and Gabriel at centre-back; Rob Holding as back-up. Takehiro Tomiyasu can also play in the middle.
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Of the 20 Premier League matches Mari was available for, he was not even picked in the matchday squad by Arteta. A loan made sense, then, and he moved to Udinese where he has since impressed, playing 15 times.
During those 15 games, Udinese conceded 21 goals – compared to 37 in the first 23. They won five of the 11 league wins with Mari in the side. The defender has confirmed his return to Arsenal, but his future is undecided.
Mari returns but opens door to Arsenal exit after Udinese loan
Mari needs to go. He has not future at Arsenal and the Gunners are likely to bring in another defender in the coming months. There is no way Arteta brings him back into the fold. Udinese seems perfect for Mari.
Serie A suits him and the president of the Italian club is desperate to sign him. The only issue is that Arsenal, realistically, are going to have to take a hit on the £14m (Sun) fee they paid for Mari after his permanent move.
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