Arsenal in Talks to Recall Marquinhos from Loan at FC Nantes
Arsenal is reportedly in discussions with FC Nantes to bring Marquinhos back from his loan spell in January. The Brazilian U23 international joined the French club on a season-long loan in August but has only started one game so far. However, with Arsenal’s interest in recalling him, Marquinhos could make an early return to the Emirates.
Marquinhos, who signed a long-term contract with Arsenal in the summer of 2022, has made six appearances for the Gunners, scoring a goal and providing an assist in his debut Europa League match against FC Zurich. After that game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Marquinhos, stating that he has become very popular among the team despite the language barrier.
Arteta said, “He’s a player that is very popular, with no English, just with his smile and attitude has won the respect and admiration of everybody here. It was a big step for him as he hasn’t played enough minutes with us but we were willing to give him the opportunity, I think he deserved it. He took it really well and again, it’s another player that needs to keep developing, in order to do that we have to give them minutes and opportunities.”
Marquinhos had previously been loaned out to Championship side Norwich City last season, where he made 11 appearances. Before his move to England, he had spent his entire career at Brazilian club Sao Paulo, playing 42 times for his boyhood club. He won the Campeonato Paulista with Sao Paulo in 2021 and also tasted success at the Pan American Games with Brazil U23s last year.
As Arsenal looks to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, the potential recall of Marquinhos could provide them with additional options and depth in their attacking lineup. The negotiations with FC Nantes will determine whether the young winger will return to Arsenal earlier than expected.
In other Arsenal news, the club is on the verge of their first departure in the January transfer window, with Mohamed Elneny set to leave. Additionally, Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen on bringing in three new players to revive Arsenal’s title bid. Stay tuned for more updates on Arsenal’s transfer activities.
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