Holding Sings Willian Praises After Impressive Arsenal Debut
Arsenal defender Rob Holding has reserved special praise for summer signing Willian after the Brazilian put in an impressive display on his debut against Fulham over the weekend.
Willian was a constant thorn in the newly-promoted side’s flesh throughout his 75 minutes on the pitch, playing a huge role in Alexandre Lacazette’s opener before laying on further goals for fellow debutant Gabriel Magalhaes and captain Pierre Emerick Aubameyang in a 3-0 win.
Willian moved to Arsenal at the end of the 2019/2020 season on a free transfer after seven years at Stamford Bridge, where he won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup and one Europa League.
Manager Mikel Arteta is banking on Willian’s experience to improve the FA Cup holders’ fortunes, but Holding has already been impressed by the former Shakhtar Donetsk man’s output.
"I know Willian from when we've played Chelsea," Holding told the Evening Standard. "I know he's got all the ability so it's nice to have him in your team.
"He proved [against Fulham] why we signed him and Gabriel was also solid as a rock. He won everything aerially and finished off with a nice goal as well."
Arsenal will hope to continue their impressive start to the season when they take on West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium this weekend.