Lucas Torreira still has future at Arsenal, insists Gilberto Silva despite Arteta sending midfielder out on loan
LUCAS TORREIRA still has a future under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.
That’s according to ex-Gunners star Gilberto Silva, who believes the on-loan Atletico Madrid midfielder still has a role to play at the Emirates.
Torreira, 24, won Arsenal fans over immediately after he joined from Sampdoria in 2018, making 50 appearances in all competitions to establish himself as a key member of the side.
However, the Uruguay international found himself sidelined last season under both Unai Emery and Arteta, with most of his 39 appearances coming from the bench.
Torreira was shipped off on loan to Spanish giants Atletico in October with Thomas Partey coming the other way in a £45m deal.
And Torreira’s future in north London remains unclear with no permanent clause included in his loan agreement.
But ex-Arsenal anchorman Silva feels Torreira can still be a part of Arteta’s squad when he returns from the Spanish capital.
Invincibles ace Silva played 244 times in six seasons for the Gunners, winning two FA Cups and the 2004 Premier League title.
And he told Ladbrokes: “I think Torreira had a good start to his career at Arsenal.
“He played some really good games but then last season he played some not-so-good games and was dropped to the bench as a result.
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“In the end he moved to Atletico Madrid on loan but I still believe he has a chance at Arsenal.
“At some point players will believe they don’t have a chance at a team – especially when a new manager comes in.
“But Torreira definitely has quality. He’s a great player.”
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