Nuno Tavares’ future at Arsenal is reportedly uncertain as of now. The 24-year-old left back has dropped to the fringes of the squad and could be sold as Mikel Arteta looks to streamline the team. Tavares faces stiff competition for a starting position with Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jakub Kiwior, and Kieran Tierney all vying for the left-back spot. With Riccardo Calafiori set to join the Gunners soon, the future looks increasingly bleak for Tavares.
Tavares came through the youth ranks of Benfica, going on to make 25 appearances for the first team before Arsenal signed him for a fee worth £8 million. Arteta was initially impressed with the fullback’s attacking abilities, and Tavares went on to make 22 appearances for the Gunners in his debut season. However, there were major weaknesses in Tavares’ game, particularly in his defensive work.
The 24-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan, having stints at Marseille and Nottingham Forest. While a summer exit looks likely for Tavares, the left back wants to fight for his spot at Arsenal, stating: ”Yes, obviously, I have in mind to return to Arsenal and have a good pre-season. I will always do my best, as I have done in all pre-seasons, to have a place at the club.
“I always try to do my work in the best way. Then it’s up to the club to decide whether I’m a valid option or not, but I have a strong mentality. I know what I’m capable of. Sometimes things don’t depend on us, but my job is to focus on myself and do what I do best… I know my value and I don’t let anything affect me. I trust my work.”
While his determination is to be applauded, he just doesn’t fit into Arteta’s plans. There are already too many left backs in the squad, with Tavares arguably last in the pecking order. His wingback role, coupled with a lack of tactical fluidity, is a mismatch with the Gunners’ tactical style. A move to a team which suits his playing style will be beneficial for all parties.
Lazio are reportedly interested in Tavares and are willing to pay around £10 million for the Portugal youth international. This is a good deal which allows Arsenal to offload deadwood while simultaneously giving Tavares an opportunity to rebuild his faltering career.
