Mikel Arteta could deploy Fabio Vieira in surprise new role, and how it will save Arsenal millions

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Arsenal midfielder Fabio Vieira has a lot to prove this season, but has performed well in pre-season so far.

Vieira has started in just five Premier League games since his move from Porto two seasons ago, and time is running out for him to cement his future at Arsenal.

The 24-year-old clearly has talent, but is yet to show it on a consistent basis, and he will hope to force his way into Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup once the season begins.

So far in pre-season, with Bukayo Saka absent after reaching the final of Euro 2024, Vieira has been deployed on the right wing, and this saw him score a stunning volley against Bournemouth in the opening friendly of Arsenal’s pre-season tour.

This is now a role he can play in going forward, and it could help solve a problem within the squad.

Fabio Vieira could play on the right wing for Arsenal

Vieira has appeared on the right several times, but his natural position is as an attacking midfielder.

However, Arteta appears keen to use him on the right, and The Athletic have highlighted that this could help cover for his defensive weaknesses.

“Fabio Vieira may be considered a wide option next season too. For the second successive game, he was deployed in a role on the right-hand side of the front three. Perhaps by playing on the flank Vieira’s defensive deficiencies are less exposed,” a report in The Athletic stated of Vieira.

If Vieira excels on the right-hand side, this could solve a key issue Arteta faces.

Fabio Vieira could provide cover for Bukayo Saka

Finding rotational cover for Saka has not been easy, but it is clear that the winger needs to be able to rotate more and play less games over the course of the season.

Saka is a winger who often cuts inside onto his left foot, and links up well with Martin Odegaard and Ben White in attacking pockets of space.

Whilst not a natural winger, Vieira could replicate the creativity Saka provides in this role, and could also thrive as he will be allowed to make a difference in the final third with his strong left foot.

This could save Arsenal a lot of money when looking for a new winger.

Whilst Arteta may still be keen to add a speedy and versatile outlet, in terms of a like-for-like replacement, if Vieira steps up to the role then there will be no need to add a left-footed inside winger such as Barcelona star Raphinha, who was offered to Arsenal earlier on this summer.