Brazil legend Rivaldo backs Arsenal new boy to be a hit

Brazil legend Rivaldo is backing Arsenal’s new defensive signing Pablo Mari to be a success for at The Emirates.

Mari joined the Gunners on loan during the January transfer window from Flamengo, although Mikel Arteta’s men have the option to make the move permanent in the summer.

The defender’s arrival came as a surprise after the 26-year-old had previously spent three seasons at reigning Premier League champions Manchester City without playing a game for the club.

Mari was instead loaned out every year, but Rivaldo is now backing him to be a hit in England after Arsenal made their move.

The former Brazil playmaker watched Mari closely during his stint at Flamengo and he was impressed by the Spaniard’s performances.

“I think Pablo Mari will fit in very well at Arsenal and in the Premier League,” Rivaldo told Standard Sport, speaking in his role as a Betfair Ambassador.

“He is a good player that struggled to impose himself in Europe as a loaned player of Man City for a while, but he really convinced people being part of a great Flamengo team last season.

“He is very complete as a defender – capable of bringing the ball forward when necessary and a threat on set pieces. He has good passing skills as well and I liked what I saw from him.

“In Brazil, everyone has good opinion about him, and he could be a very successful option for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta.”

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