David Luiz backs Arsenal teammate Willian to turn things around

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Arsenal defender, David Luiz, has launched a staunch defence of his teammate and fellow Brazilian, Willian, ahead of this weekend’s fixtures.

After signing on a big contract on a free transfer in the summer, Willian has failed to fire with the Gunners, despite a brilliant opening day to the season at Fulham.

Since then, he’s seen the likes of Emile Smith-Rowe and Bukayo Saka flourish. But Luiz, speaking to ESPN (quotes via Football.London), believes Willian will be successful for Arsenal, insisting ‘everyone loves him’.

“He’s an experienced, intelligent guy, who knows what he should know, what he must do every day. You don’t see Willian murmuring to train, you don’t see Willian not training. He’s always dedicated, he’s looking for the best, to improve, to grow. You don’t see Willian with an ugly face on the bench. All those things,” Luiz said.

“So he’s a guy who will go through this, he will go through this moment and he’ll still bring a lot of joy to Arsenal, to this club. Everyone already loves Willian here, so I know that things will happen in the best possible way soon.”

Willian’s big contract and age have often made him an easy target for some Arsenal fans. And with Mikel Arteta promoting the younger players in the squad, it has left some scratching their heads as to why they signed him.

TBR View: Like Luiz, Willian’s experience will be vital both on and off the field

You can’t simply have a team consisting of young players with no experience behind them. Every team needs a few leaders and players who have been there and done it.

Willian is in that category. He’s won most things and that’s important to have around the squad.

As Luiz says, Willian will know he’s struggling. But he is a quality player and Arsenal fans should be confident he can deliver in the coming year or two to help Mikel Arteta’s men.