Arsenal sign Squillaci after controversial departure from Sevilla
So finally Arsene Wenger has secured the services of a central defender and it’s Sebastian Squillaci of Sevilla for 5 million pounds. But even before the signature was secured, Squillaci demonstrated a single-minded and ruthless approach. That forced through his transfer from Spain to England and now the French defender is looking to battle his way into Arsenal’s starting line-up.
The 30-year old defender caused a massive controversy when he refused to play for Sevilla in the first leg of their Champions League play off against FC Braga of Portugal. Squillaci did not want to jeopardize his move to Arsenal by being tied-up for the top European football competition. So with only Arsenal on his mind he refused to play despite being named in the starting 11.
Sevilla lost the match 1-0 in Portugal and now face an uphill task in the second leg tomorrow night to qualify for the group stages of the competition. In some circles Squillaci is being criticized heavily but the Sevilla coach, Antonio Alvarez, did not dwell on the issue and was quick to put the controversy behind him. Antonio said that he obviously didn’t like the fact that Squillaci refused to play but it’s sad that the circumstances turned out that way and he said that since then he has turned over a new leaf and forgotten about the issue.
Squillaci’s partner in defence, Julian Escude, said that Sebastian was named in the starting line-up but only to be withdrawn in mysterious circumstances. Escude said that when the coach gave his team talk, Sebastian was all set to play, but when the players were marching on to the pitch he was not.
Arsenal, who were very upset about the way Barcelona courted and unsettled their skipper, Cesc Fabregas. Have came out and said that they have no say in the matter as it was the player himself who was unrepentant and they have done nothing wrong.
Squillaci has previously played for Monaco and Lyon and this will be the first time ever that the footballer will be playing outside France or Spain. Squillaci said about his move to the Emirates that it was his dream to follow the footsteps of his countrymen, who had previously represented Arsenal. Squillaci will enter into direct competition with Thomas Vermalen, Johan Djourou and Laurent Koscielny for a place in the starting line-up.
Squillaci, who underwent his medical yesterday, said that Arsenal was always a team that he watched out for. Also, that for any French spectator it was impossible to miss a game when Henry, Pires, Gallas and Vieira are playing and the player is very happy to have now become a part of that folklore.
Arsenal started their season with a disappointing 1-1 draw at Liverpool and then turned on the style at home beating Blackpool 6-0 at the Emirates. Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky, who were both criticised for their dismal performance in the Liverpool game, were the heroes against Blackpool, as they orchestrated every attack. Jack Wilshere is better known for his creativity and attacking prowess, but Wenger deployed him in front of the back 4 along with Abou Diaby and suggested that Wilshere will be best served in the role of a holding midfielder.
Tomas Rosicky has also had a remarkable turnaround of fate as he has moved past his fitness concerns to start the opening two games for his club. The midfielder has recently been plagued by injury but after having a full pre-season under his belt, Rosicky looks sharper than ever and will be pivotal in Arsenal’s title challenge.
Tags: