Former England midfielder Chris Waddle believes Kylian Mbappe would instantly improve Arsenal, but has questioned whether the Real Madrid star would fit into Mikel Arteta’s strict system.
Speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest football odds, Waddle said Mbappe’s quality is beyond doubt, but his personality and style of play could create challenges in North London.
Mbappe quality impossible to ignore
Waddle believes Arsenal would struggle to turn down the opportunity to sign one of the world’s best players, especially after reaching this season’s Champions League final.
“Kylian Mbappe is not going to play for a team who aren’t competing for the biggest trophies,” Waddle said.
He added that Arsenal have shown they can compete at the highest level, but believes maintaining that standard would be essential if they were ever to attract a player of Mbappe’s stature.
“If they could get Mbappe, he would play on that left-hand side,” he explained.
However, despite calling him “the ultimate answer” in terms of individual quality, Waddle admitted he has doubts over whether Arteta’s tactical demands would suit the forward.
He described Mbappe as “a bit of a loose cannon” and suggested he is the type of player who performs best when given freedom rather than rigid instructions.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Pep Guardiola tipped for shock Marseille move in bid to end PSG dominance
Arteta chose trophies over entertainment
On Tuesday, May 19, Manchester City drew with Bournemouth, ending Arsenal’s 22-year wait for Premier League glory.
Waddle also reflected on Arsenal’s title-winning campaign and praised Arteta for prioritising results over style.
“Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will be remembered as a very, very well-organised team,” Waddle said.
“I don’t think they’ve been too great on the eye compared to how Manchester City or Liverpool have won their league titles. I don’t think Arsenal have been as entertaining as the other sides who’ve previously won the Premier League. But I don’t think they’ll care about that.”
He praised Arteta for creating a disciplined and organised side, even after significant spending in the transfer market.
“Lifting the Premier League trophy was the goal at the start of the season. They’ve been building up to this for the last three years.
“Now they’ve got it over the line, and whichever way they play people have got to respect the fact that out of 38 games Arsenal have been the most consistent team. You can’t take that away from that.”
