Mikel Arteta has openly lauded Piero Hincapie’s impact since arriving at the club, hinting strongly at a permanent move for the defender this summer. The Ecuadorian international joined on loan from Bayer Leverkusen and has quickly become a vital component of Arsenal’s defensive setup.
Hincapie’s start wasn’t without its hurdles; a groin injury initially delayed his integration into the team. However, since securing a starting position against Tottenham in late November, he has been a near ever-present figure in the Premier League, missing only one match.
His consistent performances have solidified his place, limiting opportunities for other players vying for the same position. Arteta, however, sees this as a testament to Hincapie’s growth and potential, believing he’s only scratching the surface of what he can achieve.
Arteta emphasized Hincapie’s increasing comfort within the team’s system, noting a significant improvement in his physical condition and tactical understanding. He’s become “extremely dominant” in defensive actions and is grasping the nuances of the team’s attacking play, including set-pieces.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Hincapie has quickly earned the respect and camaraderie of his teammates. Arteta highlighted the positive interactions and clear connection between Hincapie and the rest of the squad, a crucial element for team cohesion.
The club holds an option to finalize the transfer for a reported fee of £45 million, and Arteta’s comments suggest they are seriously considering exercising it. He acknowledged ongoing discussions about the future, expressing overall satisfaction with Hincapie’s contributions thus far.
Arsenal’s immediate focus remains on their upcoming clash against Chelsea. Despite a strong record against their London rivals this season, Arteta is adamant that past results will not breed complacency.
He stressed the importance of meticulous preparation and respecting the challenge Chelsea presents. Arteta believes that focusing on the present moment and adapting to the current context is paramount to securing a positive outcome.
Positive news emerged on the injury front with Kai Havertz returning to training. Max Dowman is also poised to gain valuable experience with the Under-21 side. A final assessment will be made on Ben White’s availability before Sunday’s match.
