Why Matteo Guendouzi is surprised by what has happened in first season at Arsenal

Matteo Guendouzi has made 33 appearances in all competitions so far, with fellow summer signing Lucas Torreira the only member of the Gunners squad to have played more. The 19-year-old did not expect to play such a prominent role for Emery's side when he signed from Lorient for £7million last July. “Let’s be honest, apart from the players here who follow a bit of the French leagues, no one had ever heard of me!" Guendouzi told the Standard.(via Mirror) “So it was very important for me to show what I was capable of as early as possible. I had a chance during the pre-season tour and I took it. I showed I could be part of this team. I still didn’t expect to play so much because I know I’m at a top club with great players. “I’m a bit surprised that everything has been going so well. I’ve played well when I’ve featured. I think I showed that I could bring something to the team. “I am very happy with how things have gone for me at the club so far and if I can keep playing as much in the second half of the season, it would be great.”

Bayern add £40m defender to transfer wishlist