Arsenal's New Star Explains Why He Snubbed Liverpool and Real Madrid for Gunners Move
Cristhian Mosquera's love for Arsenal goes well beyond his summer arrival at the club, though it was a discussion with Mikel Arteta that ultimately persuaded the Spanish defender to sign with the Gunners.
Mosquera established himself as one of Europe's most talented young defenders during the previous campaign. The 2024 Olympic gold medalist with Spain featured in all but one of Valencia's league matches at just 20 years old—and his absence was felt in that single game: a crushing 7–1 loss to Barcelona.
When it became apparent that Mosquera wouldn't extend his contract due to expire in 2026, multiple clubs entered the race. Liverpool and Chelsea showed interest while Real Madrid attempted to continue their dominance over Spain's brightest young prospects. However, Arsenal secured his signature for a reasonable €15 million (£13.3 million, $17.4 million).
The Gunners held an advantage over their rivals. "I've always followed the Premier League. Actually, Arsenal was my favorite team," Mosquera recently told The Guardian. "The squad, the jersey. They seemed unique to me: they possessed something special, a certain mystique."
Nevertheless, it was Arteta's compelling influence that clinched the transfer. "Before making my decision, someone close to me mentioned: 'Once you talk with Mikel, there's no chance he won't win you over.' That's precisely what occurred," Mosquera remembered. "After that conversation ended, my future destination became crystal clear."
The Basque manager has strengthened the positive initial impact he made on his fellow countryman. "He truly lives and breathes football, was brought up in it, has seen it all," Mosquera commented about Arteta.
"You notice that in his conversations. He cherishes the finer points, spots things others might overlook. I'm delighted with him. He's a remarkable individual and he's supporting me tremendously. The coaching staff have made everything smooth. Arsenal is an amazing institution."
The confidence placed in Mosquera has been swiftly rewarded. The 21-year-old has stepped in effortlessly for both of Arsenal's preferred centre backs when needed and could well feature again in the upcoming north London derby after Gabriel sustained a groin problem.
Mosquera: Arsenal's Approach Extends Beyond Defense
Mosquera has allowed only three goals while on the field for Arsenal this season, contributing significantly to the record-breaking defensive performances delivered by the Gunners. Yet the adaptable centre back wants to redirect attention away from just the defense.
"The secret is equilibrium: it's not solely about defending, and that responsibility doesn't fall only on defenders," Mosquera emphasized. "It's effective and you witness that currently: a squad that's like granite, making life extremely difficult for opposition teams. To secure victories you must also create threats, your attackers require opportunities."
"However, people focus on the defensive aspect due to the statistics, and it is crucial that teams don't find the net against us. And these figures are remarkable," he continued.
Despite conceding two goals to Sunderland in their recent match, Arsenal have still allowed just five goals in 17 fixtures, recording 13 shutouts in the process.
Mosquera described the mindset behind that stingy defensive record. "Our goal is our home and nobody gets access, nobody comes close to our penalty area," he stated.
"Then create threats going forward. There's obviously a tactical component—the positioning—but I believe much of it comes down to mentality, approach. Our territory: stay out. In the changing room, we have faith in ourselves. We understand our capabilities, we know our potential destination."