The defender joined Arsenal in a big-money move in the summer transfer window.
Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi
Arsenal summer signing Shkodran Mustafi has told Bild he is aware of the burden his big price tag can bring.
The Germany international joined the Gunners in the summer transfer window, signing in a £35 million move from La Liga side Valencia.
Many an eyebrow was raised at the price that Arsene Wenger’s side paid for his services, with doubts about whether he was value for money.
He has since dispelled those doubts, though, putting a series of impressive performances alongside Laurent Koscielny in the heart of the defence.
Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi in action with FC Basel’s
The pressure is on him to prove his worth and he has admitted to Bild that he is aware of the burden his price tag brings.
“I wanted Arsenal, everything else I left to be negotiated between the clubs,” he said.
“Of course, this is an incredible sum (41 million euros). And I know what a burden that can bring. But I could not influence this. So I push it far away out of my head.”
Burnley’s Sam Vokes in action with Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi
Luckily for Arsenal, it does not appear that Mustafi’s price tag is acting as much of a burden so far.
He has been impressive alongside Koscielny so far and is currently their second best defender when it comes to both won tackles and defensive duels.
His quick adaptation to the physicality of the Premier League has been the most impressive aspect, with Arsene Wenger even admitting to the club’s official website that the defender’s quick integration has surprised him.
So far that has helped Arsenal to enjoy the joint third best defensive record so far and they will be hoping for more of the same as the season progresses.
Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi
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