First off, I have to say, Vieira is a legend.
I won’t have a bad word said against him and I am sure all Gunners fans will share the same opinion. But I have to say I was slightly underwhelmed when I saw the Premier League gossip today linking him with a dramatic return to the Emirates.
I know it was a rumour in ‘The Sun’, not the most reliable of sources. But the hacks on Sky Sports news have picked it up and the internet messageboards and rumour mills are gathering pace. This story may just have some weight.
But is a blast from the past the answer to our midfield problems?
Vieira was a great player but at 33 he is at the very tail end of his career and by all accounts, is well past his best. We were screaming out for a strong defensive midfielder last season and although Vieira fitted the bill a few years ago I don’t feel he has what it takes if we are to compete this season.
With £39 million in Arsene’s back pocket I would expect more. We could make fair cases for the departures of Toure and Adebayor but that was with the expectation that replacements were lined up. Instead all we have had is rumour and conjecture with Wenger then putting them all to bed by saying: “Unfortunately I cannot tell you that we are close to signing anyone.”
Hmmm. Not good.
Or am I just being pessimistic?
After all we have Thomas Vermaelen who will replace Toure, who has underperformed for two years anyway. We have plenty of strikers to replace Adebayor who, let’s face it, didn’t look bothered for much of last season. And Vieira on a pay-as-you-play deal carries no risk. He could be the experienced head among a clutch of young players who Wenger has enormous faith in and he could aid their development with very little outlay.
I think it is one of those situations where we as fans have to put faith in the people in the know. We aren’t at training everyday, we don’t know the finances at the club or what deals or enquires have been made.
It doesn’t stop us from worrying though, that’s a safe football bet to make!
Article written by Tom Mallows.
9 Comments
July 30, 2009 at 1:54 pm
I have to say I agree. Vieira’s return would be a good thing but I would rather we invested in someone like Cattermole as it’s a long term investment.
On the other hand however Vieira could bring the likes of Ramsey and Diaby to the fore.
July 30, 2009 at 1:55 pm
very useful to come on and steady nerves with 20 minutes to play and 1 – 0 up? think how often we played like headless chickens last year in those circumstances.
and a few tough away games up north where the oppostion are tough but not that quick?
But if he wants a guaranteed start in 35+ games a season, then he would be better off going elsewhere, sadly.
July 30, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Not bad for 750 000 signing on fee. Could teach Fabregas how to be captain, boost moral at the training camp etc.
But we still need a De Rossi who is in his prime and can look to the future.
I heard a rumour we’ve already signed De Rossi and are waiting till august to announce him?
He appeared on our team sheet and then dissapeared?
Anyone think there is any weight to these rumours?
July 30, 2009 at 2:13 pm
why waiting till august tho
July 30, 2009 at 2:17 pm
I don’t agree with those saying that Vieira is too old. He could be our Roy Keane. Vieira is a through and through winner and a great leader. In my opinion, a player like him is exactly what we need.
July 30, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Well, I initially was taken aback by the gossip but as I thought of it objectively; I of the opinion that it would be a great idea to have an Arsenal legend/veteran who will add leadership, experience, bite, motivation, encouragement to a young side like Ryan Giggs does at ManU. Although, it might be a gamble, who knows – It might just pay-off on the long run.
July 30, 2009 at 2:41 pm
I think this would be a fantastic buy……he only gets payed if he plays well plus, all this talk of him being passed his prime. While all true, that does not reduce his knowledge of the game which is something i think a player like Denilson or Song could use is someone with as much experience as Patrick has and I think that is what Arsene has up his sleeve.
August 1, 2009 at 11:14 am
fellas stop it the brief answer is NO !!! viera aint good enough, he might essintial as a sub but no more than that. noe that Melo is taken we have to concentrate on bringing De-rossi or another 25-28 DM. we dont need catrremole we have song for the years to come he will be great we need one for the 2-3 years to come till then song will fill the gap
August 2, 2009 at 6:32 pm
De Rossi said he doesn’t want to sign for Arsenal. He’s Roma through and through, so is his whole family!