Premier League: Guimaraes has potential to elevate Arsenal, says Arteta

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is confident that new signing Bruno Guimaraes can propel the club to the "next level" following his £75m transfer from Newcastle United, which was completed recently.

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The 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder was formally introduced to Arsenal supporters at Emirates Stadium prior to the friendly match against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, marking a significant moment for the club.

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Guimaraes was not included in the squad for Arsenal's 3-2 defeat by Dortmund, but he may make his debut against Como on Wednesday, giving him an opportunity to showcase his skills.

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Arteta expressed his delight at bringing Guimaraes to north London and praised the midfielder's attitude since joining the club, highlighting his enthusiasm and dedication.

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As quoted, Arteta stated, "I'm delighted to have him," and further emphasized the midfielder's impact, saying "We see very clearly, especially the energy that he brought immediately to the training ground, the hunger, the desire to come here and create a big history at the club."

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Arteta also underscored the ambition required to take the club to the next level, noting "And that's the ambition that we need" and "We want to go to the next level and are very, very much convinced that we're going to need players with such a personality, desire and character to push everybody inside the organisation to go even higher."

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Arteta outlined Guimaraes' potential contributions to the team, citing his versatility and ability to excel in both defence and attack, which will be a valuable asset to the club.

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He explained that Guimaraes can play in two different positions, has excellent timing and intuition to win the ball back, and can progress play quickly, making him a highly sought-after player.

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Guimaraes' ability to create scoring opportunities and his goal-scoring threat were also highlighted by Arteta, who noted that he has a "smell and a really good timing to get in the box" and can finish plays effectively.

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The arrival of Guimaraes expands Arteta's midfield options, which already include Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, Eberechi Eze, and Mikel Merino, providing the team with increased depth and flexibility.

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Arsenal have already made several signings, including Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge and goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening the squad.

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The club also attempted to sign Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr, but he opted to remain in Spain after agreeing to a new six-year contract, which was a setback for Arsenal's recruitment plans.

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Despite this, Arteta indicated that Arsenal remain active in the transfer market and may make further additions, stating "Well, that's what we're trying to do" and "If we have the right player in the market to make us much better."

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Arteta provided an update on the club's injury situation, confirming that Jurrien Timber is still "weeks away" from returning, while William Saliba continues his recovery from a back injury, which will be closely monitored by the club's medical staff.