‘Going to keep him’: Arteta rules out departure for 19-year-old Arsenal youngster, he ‘really likes’ him

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Mikel Arteta has confirmed that new signing Marquinhos will not be leaving Arsenal on loan this summer.

In this pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s away trip to Bournemouth on Saturday, Arteta was asked about the 19-year-old’s future.

“Very happy with him. He’s adapted really well he’s a really likeable figure even if his language is not great yet. Arteta said, as per Football London.

“We’re gonna keep him here for another few months and make sure he establishes himself and then see what’s best for his development.”

Marquinhos is the latest young Brazilian signed by Arsenal, arriving from iconic Brazilian club Sao Paulo, and following the journey made from South America by Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian has represented his national team at under-16 and under-17 level, and represented Sao Paulo’s first team on 42 occasions.

Arteta confirms Marquinhos won’t be leaving Arsenal on loan

The 19-year-old has already made a big impression at Arsenal since joining this summer.

He’s already scored three goals in his two appearances for Arsenal’s under-21s, including an impressive brace against West Ham.

He’s yet to be called up to Arteta’s first team squad, but with Nicolas Pepe potentially leaving the club, there could be an opening on the bench soon for another winger.

Arteta described Marquinhos as a ‘likeable figure’ and gave the Brazilian a bit of special attention in training.

After losing a keepy-uppies drill alongside defender Gabriel, Arteta makes sure the popular young man wasn’t the last-man standing, much to be enjoyment of his teammates.

If he continues the scintillating form he’s shown at under-21 level for Arsenal already, it won’t be long before Marquinhos is ready to make his senior debut for the Gunners.