3 returning loan players who have a part to play next season

Loan players can often be hit-or-miss. So many factors can influence how much an individual plays and how much they develop. Injuries, form, connection to the club and trust of the manager all come into play.

Arsenal have not used the loan system to great effect in the past. With a burgeoning Hale End, however, Edu and his staff have done well to secure intelligent loans. Some players will inevitably be sold in the summer. The integration of returning loan players, however, will be instrumental in saving funds in an inflated transfer market.

3 returning loan players who have a part to play for Arsenal next season

Here are three returning loan players who have a part to play at Arsenal next season.

3. Lucas Torreira

The lack of quality depth in midfield has been well-documented. Thomas Partey’s injury derailed our season, Granit Xhaka is dependable but limited and Mohamed Elneny is a good squad player and nothing more. Only three midfielders at a club playing a tough Premier League season plus cup competitions and now the Europa League will not be enough.

The next crop of talent coming in from Hale End is certainly technically gifted. As seen with Charlie Patino against Nottingham Forest, however, these youngsters are yet to fill out their frames to compete physically against senior sides. They also simply lack minutes at the top level.

Torreira would fill this gap between experienced but limited players and bright but raw academy products. Although his time in England was a mixed bag, he does have experience in the Premier League. He understands the physical demands and kept up with these demands brilliantly.

Part of the reason for the Uruguayan being sent out on loan was his lack of ability on the ball and not settling to life in England. Assuming the latter can be resolved with time, coming into a more tight-knit squad would certainly help as well. The former concern is something only Arteta can address. If the staff can help Torreira feel at home and the manager can find a way to use his unique and beneficial skillset, he would be an excellent option either starting or at the very least being in the mix for a place in the lineup.

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