Fabio Vieira: The view from Portugal Feature News

Our new midfielder Fabio Vieira stated that he is ready to go to his “new home” after completing his change from the Portuguese champion Porto.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder was a regular in his youth team, which lost just once all season in the league, contributing 14 assists in 27 appearances and winning the Player of the Month in the Primeira Liga in April.

His uniform caught the eye of Mikel Arteta and the club moved quickly to secure the services of the Portuguese international under-21.

After signing the deal, Fabio sat down with us to discuss the transfer, his style of play and why he chose the Gunners. Read below for the full interview.

Fabio, welcome to Arsenal! How excited are you to make this move?

I’m excited, of course. This is an important step in my career. Arsenal is a huge and historic club, so I’m glad to be here in my new home.

Everything happened very quickly. Could you tell us about the process?

It was definitely a quick process. It was something that attracted me. Meeting people at the club was really positive for me. I like it here and I’m here to give it my all.

What factors helped you make your decision?

Like I said, Arsenal is a historic English club. It is one of the largest clubs in the world. Everyone knows that Arsenal is a fantastic team. That was one of the main reasons I chose Arsenal. I really like the way the team plays and I can’t wait to get started.

Did you still have the opportunity to meet Mikel Arteta? What has he told you?

I have not met him personally yet, but I have talked to him. He told me that he was looking forward to starting to work with me and getting to know my family and me.

Can you tell us a little bit about your style of play?

I am an attacking player looking to find space between the lines to be able to complete the moves either with assists or goals. I think these are the main characteristics that Arsenal fans can expect from me. I will always give everything for the team.

You are known as a creative and aggressive player. Do you have a favorite goal or performance so far?

No, I do not have a favorite goal. My three years in Porto were very important to me. People know it’s my club, so they were all important.

What are your strengths / weaknesses and what do you want to develop here?

My strengths are my passes and my ability to shoot. I think these are my main strengths. As for what I have to work on, I would say the physical side of my game.

You are normal in Portugal under 21, often next to Nuno Tavares. Have you talked to him about signing for Arsenal?

I had the opportunity to talk to him. He told me a few things about the club. There are fantastic people here who have helped me with everything I needed, which is essential.

Last season, you faced Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah in the European Under-21 Championship. Do you know a lot about your new teammates?

I have to face them in the Euro. They are both quality players. Arsenal have top players and I am now here to help the team achieve its goals.

What else do you know about Arsenal history? What do you like about the club?

I know some very famous players have played here. Some big stars, world legends of the game, such as Bergkamp, ​​Thierry Henry, Cazorla and Fabregas. I remember them well. They were players who had so much presence on the field.

Are there any Arsenal players you particularly admire?

I’m also a fan of Bukayo Saka and Smith Rowe. I really like the way they play. Odegard looks a lot like me.

Can you tell us about your life away from football? What are your hobbies and interests?

I am a man who loves home. I just like to stay home and I do not like to go out. I prefer to relax at home with my girlfriend.

Have you been to London a long time? What are you looking forward to doing in England in your spare time?

I do not know. I have not had the opportunity to get to know London yet. I can not wait for this and start the new season here. I will definitely arrange things to do, I will enjoy and pass the time.

Are you still young to make this move, do you feel ready?

Yes, I feel it’s the right move in my career. I think it will be very good for me and I do not regret it. I’m excited to be here.

And finally, what are your hopes and ambitions for the time you are staying at Arsenal?

I hope we achieve the goals that have been set for the season. We must all be here for each other and help the club succeed.