---
title: "Lichtsteiner looking forward to challenge with Bellerin"
canonical: "https://readarsenal.com/2018/09/12/lichtsteiner-looking-forward-to-challenge-with-bellerin/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Daniel Emery"
section: "Articles"
published: "2018-09-12T09:17:19Z"
modified: "2018-09-12T09:17:19Z"
---

# Lichtsteiner looking forward to challenge with Bellerin

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](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-6155655/Stephan-Lichtsteiner-rubbishes-reports-retirement-struggling-make-impression-Arsenal.html), 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.

![Michael Regan/Getty Images Sport](https://cdn.readeverything.co/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/1015578228.jpg)

> 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.