Yossi Benayoun has hinted that Arsenal signalled interest in signing him before transfer deadline day and stressed that while the media played up the drama of his last gasp capture, he always knew he would pen a loan agreement with little time to spare.
The Israeli international made his debut against Swansea last Saturday before being handed his full debut against Boruss Dortmund on Tuesday evening. An experienced operator, having spent six years in England following a move from Racing Santander, the 31-year-old looks likely to provide creative cover for the injured Jack Wilshere, while also flexible enough to play in a more advanced wing position.
Reflecting on his move to the Emirates, Benayoun told Arsenal.com:
“I was very calm. It was dramatic in the media but I knew I had a few options in England on the final day.
“It was agreed between me and Chelsea to wait until the last day so see if they bring in another player. I knew I had a few offers and when Arsenal came it was an easy choice.”
Out for much of last season with a ruptured Achilles, Benayoun happily handed over his number 10 shirt to Juan Mata when the Spaniard was signed by new boss Andre Villas-Boas recognising that his time at Stamford Bridge was nearing a premature end.
“I didn’t get a chance at Chelsea because I was injured,” he went on to say.
“I was unlucky. I felt I would not get many chances so I wanted to leave first. For me, it was great opportunity for me to play in a great club and in the Champions League.
“I don’t want to show anything to Chelsea. I want to show Arsenal that I deserve to be here and I will prove it. I know they were unlucky in the last few years.
“They were always close and I believe that we can win something. There is a long way to go and we have to improve but we have a lot of quality and will do everything to win a trophy.”
What does he mean when he says, “I don’t want to show anything to Chelsea”?
He’s saying he’s not trying to impress people at Chelsea to get back into their team, he just wants to impress Arsenal.
Oh, I see. Well, even if he was then he is still going to be a lot more motivated than a number of our want-away players of last season.
I think he’s emphasizing that he’s finished with them, ie “I have nothing to prove to chelsea because there wont be a place in the team for me now.” Unlike some loan players who are interested in returning to their parent club.
Hopefully he’ll kill it off for us. He’s always ben dangerous when he played for Liverpool against us!
I was a bit meh about Benny coming over, but am warming to him.
Just as importantly, he’s now one of a group of players that actually want to play for The Arse and I like that. I’ve had it up to here with players who think they’re better than they are and those who’s hearts and/or minds are elsewhere.
Bring it on, I say.
He’s already covered more ground in 1 game than the Russian has all season.
Love the attitude. Thats what we need more than anything. UP GOONERS!
I like the guy. Always thought he looks a bit ill though.
Looks like he needs a good roast dinner,as my mum would say 😉
I thought he did really well against against an accomplished and dangerous BD. Well done Yossi – welcome to Arsenal.
Oh, and enough of the Na$ri stuff. He’s gone, and glad to see the back of him – and great to see his true form return at Citeh last night. Flash in the pan.
£25M, thank you very much, do call again suckers.
hahahaha! me like!
Hey guys!
I like the look of this Benny-Hill fellow!
I hope we sign him next season on a permanent basis because his movement on Tuesday against Dortmund was excellent for his debut. He’s experienced and versatile. Just what we need.
I did’ent really want cheski off loads but he ran his heart out against BD and looks like he still has loads to offer, welcome to the gunners
[…] Benayoun has spoken to Arsenal,com, and gave his opinion over his move to Arsenal. Have a read here. The player said something important though, if you didn’t read […]