Arteta confident Hincapie will seal permanent deal after impressive performance

Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on summer signing Piero Hincapie, declaring the defender is now showing the “extremely dominant” form that convinced the club to bring him to the Emirates.

From Deputy to Dominant: Arteta Praises Hincapie’s Arsenal Adaptation

The Ecuadorian left-back, who joined as deputy for Riccardo Calafiori, has enjoyed a consistent run of games recently.

After a period of adjustment, Arteta believes the 22-year-old is now fully up to speed both physically and tactically.

“Piero has had a sequence of games where, probably, physically, he is in a much better place,” Arteta explained.

The manager highlighted the defender’s growing influence on the pitch, noting his authority in one-on-one situations.

“He has been extremely dominant in all the defensive actions.”

However, it is not just his defensive work that has caught the manager‘s eye. Arteta revealed that Hincapie has worked hard to grasp the tactical nuances required of a full-back in his system.

“He understands what we want in the attacking part as well much better,” Arteta said.

“All the set-pieces, all the aspects that are relative to the game model that we have.”

The Spaniard also pointed to the defender’s integration off the pitch as a sign of his growing importance.

“He is very much liked amongst the players, you can see that the way they interact and react with him. I’m very pleased that he is showing that level.”

Hincapie initially joined on a deal with conditions for a permanent move. While Arteta stopped short of confirming the transfer is complete, he made the club’s stance clear.

“I would say that [his deal will become permanent],” Arteta stated.

“Let’s go through the season. We have already discussed the possible outcomes we have after that period. But so far, we are very happy with him.”

Hincapie’s emergence provides healthy competition for Calafiori. Alongside fellow summer arrival Eberechi Eze, who Arteta praised for his professionalism and patience, the squad depth appears to be solidifying at a crucial point in the campaign.

Arteta values the patience both players have shown, but with Hincapie’s recent “dominant” displays, the left-back position now looks to be in very safe hands.