Steven Gerrard Manager
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has expressed his approval of Mikel Arteta’s decision to loan a young Arsenal midfielder to Marseille. Gerrard believes this move is strategically wise, allowing the 18-year-old player to gain valuable experience and playing time under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi. The midfielder, who made an impact last season during Bukayo Saka’s injury, has struggled for minutes this term. Gerrard sees this loan as beneficial for all parties involved, particularly the player’s development.
Steven Gerrard said: “I love it, I love it. I think, if this works that everyone can be a winner from it. I think Mikel Arteta has been extremely clever here because he’s sending him to De Zerbi as well, who has got a track record for improving players, and he will give him the time and education and development and he’ll get more game time playing for Marseille. If he gets, samples the league, samples the experiences like tonight it’s not going to do him any harm. He’s a top talent, and now he’s got to go and get experience and this will be great for him for the future.”
Gerrard emphasized the potential for the young midfielder to grow under De Zerbi’s mentorship, which he believes will provide the player with diverse experiences and enhance his skills. The decision to loan the player, despite Arteta’s initial desire to keep him within the squad for depth, reflects a long-term vision for his development. The move is expected to offer the midfielder a platform to showcase his talent on a bigger stage, which could be crucial for his future career.
Steven Gerrard continued: “I think from a selfish point of view, he (Arteta) probably wanted to keep him around the squad. If you’re going for the Premier League and the Champions League and the quadruple, if you like, you want as many options as you can get from a selfish point of view. Give him different experiences, go and test him in France. But without a doubt, De Zerbi will make him a better player.”
The young midfielder himself has reportedly approved the move, expressing excitement about joining one of the best clubs in the world and working with a top coach like De Zerbi. This loan move is seen as a strategic step in his career, offering him the opportunity to gain significant playing experience and develop further under expert guidance.
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