Every one of Arsenal’s summer signings has been a success in different ways, which was to be expected as some have greater roles than others.
Undoubtedly, Arsenal’s signing of the summer was Martin Zubimendi, who has been transformative in the Gunners’ midfield.
Aside from Zubimendi’s recent error against Manchester United, the Spaniard has been sensational, but he wasn’t the only midfielder Mikel Arteta signed in the summer.
After the exits of two first team midfielders, one figure had to replace Jorginho’s sporadic role, and that was Christian Norgaard, who went from being Brentford’s captain to a rotation player at Arsenal.
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Christian Norgaard admits it’s hard competing with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi
Behind the scenes, no one works harder at Arsenal than Norgaard.
The problem for the 31-year-old is that, in his case, hard work does not push him closer to consistent game time, as he has still only played three times in the Premier League this season.
No matter how good Norgaard is on and off the pitch, he’s not going to dislodge Zubimendi’s partnership with Declan Rice, something he just admitted is not easy.
When speaking to the media in a pre-match press conference before Arsenal’s clash with Kairat Almaty, Norgaard was asked about what it’s like to compete with Rice and Zubimendi.
“It’s not easy. They are fantastic players,” he said.
The Dane might not be getting the minutes he perhaps deserves, but in Norgaard’s eyes, being around players like his two midfield teammates is only positive.
“It’s honestly a joy to come in and train every day with players of this quality, but to see and feel that you are a part of it. Now it’s just about being patient and hard work.”
It must be said that Norgaard’s patience is admirable, being a player Arteta can rely on whenever he needs him.
Which players would you like to see rotated against Kairat?
Norgaard admits Mikel Arteta did something that made him nervous
Due to the quality in Arsenal’s midfield, at times, Norgaard’s minutes have come in a different position.
The Denmark international has played at centre-back twice at Arteta’s request, a request that the midfielder admits made him a bit nervous.
“The first game against Brugge, before the game, I was a little bit nervous about playing the role,” Norgaard said in the press conference.
“But the Portsmouth game, it was a bit more natural. It’s good to be versatile, and if there’s a spot at centre-half, I am happy to take it.”
Whether it be as a substitute, a leader, a midfielder or a centre-back, Norgaard is on hand to help the Gunners, proving himself to be a fantastic summer acquisition.
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