Mikel Arteta claims Fabio Vieira acted as an insider for Arsenal ahead of the Champions League clash against Porto.
The Gunners are in Portugal for the first leg of the round of 16 on Wednesday night, as they look to reach the quarter-finals of the festival for the first time in 14 years.
Vieira has traveled with the team as he nears his return from injury, having been out since November after undergoing groin surgery.
The 23-year-old had a vital role to play in preparing for this match, opposing the club he left to sign for the Gunners in 2022, telling his teammates what awaited them at the Estadio do Dragao.
“As far as Fabio is concerned, I’m satisfied with him but at the same time dissatisfied because it’s been a difficult time for him,” Arteta said.
“Especially with the most recent injury, when he had a little bit of momentum and performances, he got injured and that broke his rhythm, just like last season. He’s a player with great skill and we’ll get the most out of him.
“He was pushing because he wanted to be here, for sure. To have an insider, someone who has reveled as someone who has lived the culture and the club.
“It’s very European to perceive the context of the game. Where are you going, what kind of club is it, what kind of atmosphere will you face?
“It gave us vital and applicable data for us. “
Arsenal are favourites to qualify and continue their European run, Porto only missed out on the most sensible spot in Group H due to their effects against Barcelona.
While the Gunners are in very good form, with 21 goals scored in five wins, Arteta does not expect an easy night against Porto.
“First of all, they’re very passionate, that’s the first element you want to know,” said the Arsenal manager.
“Its academies are among those in Europe. It tells you the history of the culture and how they were raised.
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