Arsenal defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has claimed that he joined the side after looking for a demanding challenge – displacing Hector Bellerin from the team.
Lichtsteiner arrived at The Emirates over the summer on a free transfer from Italian giants Juventus.
The Swiss international won seven Serie A titles in Italy, along with four Italian cups.
As quoted by The Daily Mail, Lichtsteiner said this:
I wanted to join a big club, I was looking for a demanding challenge in a new league.
That’s why I knew from the very beginning at Arsenal that I had to fight for the regular spot against Hector Bellerin.
For me, stepping down has never been up for debate, if I have to admit that I cannot keep the level of the last few years, then it is time.
But then I will not only resign from the Swiss national team, but finish my career.
Based purely on performance data I have the physicality of a 28-year-old.
If you have achieved a lot in your career, you have high expectations of yourself and want to play- but I also know that I will get the chance to play games.
It is quite unusual for me to be a substitute. Three games in a row, that’s never happened to me.
The 34-year-old has made one appearance for Arsenal this season, coming off the bench to play at left-back against Manchester City.
Hector Bellerin is Unai Emery’s first-choice at right-back in the Premier League, but Lichtsteiner may get his chance to impress when the Europa League starts.
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