3 reasons why Arsenal fans should be excited about Fabio Vieira’s arrival

Like a viper, Arsenal struck. A trademark RKO was delivered to the Twitter timelines of restless Gooners as it was revealed that Porto’s Fabio Vieira will soon be arriving in north London.

The technically proficient playmaker hadn’t entered the consciousness streams of many supporters before Thursday afternoon. But, I’m sure a quick Google and viewing of ‘Fabio Vieira: Amazing Skills, Assists & Goals’ was enough to convince many that Arsenal are signing the second coming of Christ.

There’s good reason for excitement, however.

After Arsenal wrapped up a deal believed to be worth up to €40m with Porto for the 22-year-old’s services, Vieira, a Portuguese Under-21 international, is set to sign a five-year deal with the Gunners following the completion of his medical.

3 reasons to be excited about Fabio Vieira’s arrival

This left-field signing was one that very few foreshadowed, but Vieira has the potential to make an immediate impact in north London. Here are three reasons why supporters should be/are rightly excited about the midfielder’s arrival.

1. Incredible creative output

Unfortunately, the availability of detailed Primeira Liga statistics are scarce online and, admittedly, the only time I’ve seen Fabio Vieira kick a football that isn’t accompanied by Bruno Mars’ Runaway in the background came at last year’s Under-21 European Championships, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

The 22-year-old was the creative hub of a mightily gifted Portuguese side that reached the final, and in his first full season of senior football, the playmaker emerged as Portugal’s most productive creator. Despite starting less than 50% of Porto’s league games last season, Fabio Vieira still led the Primeira Liga assists chart with 14. That’s pretty darn impressive.

The midfielder’s ability to nail the ‘final ball’ with unerring efficiency helped him to such a stellar haul, while he can create from several zones of the pitch.

As I’ve noted in other pieces, he reminds me of Bernardo Silva before Pep Guardiola got his hands on him. His low centre of gravity makes him incredibly tricky to tackle with the ball seemingly sticking to his feet in tight areas. He’s excellent between the lines, and he also boasts the ability to create and finish with both feet.

In short, his variety, efficiency and technique make him one of Europe’s most exciting young playmakers.

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