Should Djourou be worried by Mertesacker’s arrival?

This summers transfer window finally saw Arsene Wenger spend some money, in an obvious attempt to strengthen his squad and please the fans with some established players coming in.

The most notable signings were that of Brazilian full-back Andre Santos and German centre-back Per Mertesacker to fill in and improve Arsenal’s defence – an area much criticized by the fans and media alike as the Gunners Achilles heel.

With Andre Santos set to fill in the left-back role vacated by Gael Clichy and Mertesacker set to play along side Thomas Vermaelen, what now for Laurent Koscielny and Johan Djourou?

Though Djourou says he is not worried about Per Mertesacker’s £8million arrival at Arsenal, quite frankly, he should be.

The 24-year-old Swiss centre-back recently stated:

‘Mertesacker’s arrival may mean direct competition for me. But I am used to it, it does not frighten me.’

Yes, Mertesacker brings in competition for Djourou and the others, but with the likes of Squillaci and Koscielny to fight with for a starting role, Per brings a whole new challenge along with him, as he is not as prone to mistakes as Johan, Laurent and Sebastien are.

With Mertesacker and Vermaelen looking highly likely to be the starters of the Gunners defence this season, it might just make those on the sidelines improve their overall game and work a little harder in order to please the manager and claim a position in the Arsenal starting XI.

Like what you read? Then follow me on Twitter – http://twitter.com/Eon_93

Visit and Join our Facebook page, click HERE to do so.

Gunnersphere is currently looking for new writers to join the squad. Contact via twitter or at Gunnersphere@snack-media.com for further details.