Mikel Arteta has given his thoughts on the signing of Christian Norgaard, following his two-year deal being signed with Arsenal, with the option to extend by an additional season. He and Andrea Berta were both speaking in the wake of the announcement that sees the Dane make the biggest move of his career yet.
The 31-year-old will join a midfield alongside Martin Zubimendi, who was secured and confirmed only this past weekend. The Danish international has come in alongside his new Spanish teammate to help replace both Thomas Partey and Jorginho, whose contracts expired at the end of June.
Sporting director Berta said to the official Arsenal website: “We’re very pleased to welcome Christian Norgaard to the club. He has been a consistent high performer in the Premier League and brings many qualities to our club.
“He is a leader, and a player with high tactical intelligence and versatility who will have a very positive impact to the squad. We welcome Christian to Arsenal.”
Arteta said: “We’re delighted to welcome Christian to Arsenal. He is an international player with a wealth of experience of the Premier League. He has proven leadership skills and a strong character which will be invaluable to our squad.
“He is a strong midfielder with excellent tactical awareness and versatility. He also has physical presence and intelligence which will give us added depth and balance. Christian will bring a lot to the group both on and off the pitch, and we’re excited to start working with him in this next chapter of his career. We welcome Christian and his family to Arsenal.”
Norgaard who will wear the No.16 shirt has already begun pre-season training with his new teammates after they returned to the club on Wednesday. Norgaard was spotted arriving at the Sobha Realty Training Centre and could make his debut on the pre-season tour of Asia against any of AC Milan, Newcastle United or Tottenham Hotspur.
