Arsenal winger Samir Nasri is a class act. The fans know it, the pundits know it and in a world dominated by money, more importantly still, his agent knows it. He’s certainly having the season of his career thus far. He has 14 goals in 39 appearances, a significant improvement on last seasons’ 5 goals in 34 appearances. But it’s not only his contribution to Arsenal’s goal tally that has impressed – his quick feet, technical ability and general class have seen many Arsenal fans suggest that he’s just as important to this side as their captain Cesc Fabregas.
That’s before we even mention the drive and energy that he brings to every game. In comparison to the likes of Andrey Arshavin, who provides Arsenal with plenty of goals and assists, but little chutzpah or impetus – Nasri appears to be a whole different beast. He’s up for every game and has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season.
Why is it then that he’s in the middle of a contract wrangle with the club. Why hasn’t the club done everything they can to tie him down to a new deal? Thus far Nasri has not sat down to discuss potentially extending his Arsenal contract. Samir Nasri signed a four year deal with the club in 2008 and the time left on his contract is slowly ticking away.
As a result Nasri has been linked to the likes of AC Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid. His agent has sent out mixed messages regarding the contract situation and Nasri’s potential suitors. Talking to Calciomercato about a potential move to Serie A, Alain Migliccio said:
“Today there are only rumors, no one has contacted me. I do not think it is impossible, but personally I did not mention it, no. Would he like to play in Italy in the future? Why not?”
He clearly realised that he was stoking the fire somewhat, so he went on to add: “Milan, Juventus, Inter, are all great clubs, but now he is really well at Arsenal and I think he will not move from London.”
Whilst there’s nothing too out of the ordinary here, the fact that Nasri’s agent is even discussing the possibility of Italian clubs coming in for him must be somewhat disconcerting for Arsenal fans. The fact that Nasri is waiting until the summer to decide his future is even more worrying. Is he waiting to assess whether this side is capable of winning trophies?
Moreover, what was the purpose of Migliaccio’s quotes? To attract the interest of the Italian clubs, or to raise Nasri’s negotiating power by making Arsenal aware that there are plenty of suitors that would take him?
Either way, Arsenal and Arsene Wenger have a task on their hand: they must work hard to make sure that they keep Nasri on the books. He’s only 23 years old and he’s already one of the best players in the Premier League. He’s versatile and can play anywhere in the midfield. If Arsenal want to get themselves back into winning ways, they will need Samir Nasri’s pluck and ability.
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