Willian points to difference with Chelsea as he explains Arsenal struggles
Willian believes his poor form of late has been due to him learning “a new footballing philosophy” at Arsenal.
The Brazilian winger joined Arsenal from cross-London rivals Chelsea as a free agent in the summer.
Things seemed to be getting off to a good start when he played a part in all three goals on his debut against Fulham. Since then, though, his form has plummeted.
Willian is yet to score for his new club and has only added one more assist to the two he notched on the opening day. He has not contributed to a goal since November.
He could not even get on the pitch for Arsenal’s most recent game, a 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace in which they may have been expected to turn to him for more creativity.
Instead, he remained on the bench as his teammates failed to score. And speaking to the programme for that game, Willian admitted he is still adapting to his new surroundings.
“Well it’s never easy changing club, especially after being somewhere for so long,” he said.
“I was at Chelsea for seven years before coming to Arsenal and then you have a new club, new people, a new philosophy.
“Things are different so I’m still adapting but I feel good, I have been learning a lot – a new footballing philosophy.
“Everyone is great here. I know I can improve a lot, and of course my performances on the pitch can be a lot better.
“The first game was great for me, against Fulham, I felt I had a good performance and gave two assists. And then, I don’t know.
“I’m always trying to do my best, sometimes things don’t go the way you want. You have to say it’s a part of football and a part of life.
“Sometimes you have good moments, other times you have bad moments, you have to learn from that.
“And right now, I know I’m far away from being at my best, but I’m determined to work hard and change this.”
Willian has Arteta’s support
Despite his struggles since making the switch to Arsenal, Willian still feels he has the backing of his manager Mikel Arteta.
Arteta has given Willian starts in 12 of Arsenal’s 18 Premier League games so far, and the winger confirms he is working with the manager to improve.
“Of course we talk about lots of things together, and I know I have his support,” Willian said.
“That’s great for me, and to have the support of the club, so what I can do is always work hard, give my best in training to try to improve myself. This is the only way to get back to good performances.”
READ MORE: Tony Adams points finger at Edu over ‘lazy’ summer signing