Guendouzi reveals Emery had long term interest in him

Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi has revealed that Arsenal boss Unai Emery had a long term interest in him before the Spaniard signed him this Summer.

Speaking to L’Equipe, via GetFrenchFootball, the midfielder revealed that Emery had told him that he had been watching the midfielder since PSG played his former team Lorient in December 2016.

Guendouzi said:

My discussions with Unai Emery were very important too. He told me he had been following me since a game at the Parc des Princes.

Lorient lost that game 5-0 to Emery’s PSG. The Spaniard was sacked at the end of last season after failing to take PSG far in the Champions League.

Guendouzi also revealed his past love of Arsenal, with players such as Patrick Viera inspiring the midfielder.

As I grew up & I discovered football, it was love at first sight with Arsenal. Players like Thierry Henry & Patrick Vieira made me love this club. When they showed interest this summer, my decision was clear.