Christos Tzolis, the new Arsenal signing, has expressed his readiness for a return to the Premier League, asserting that he has developed significantly since his previous stint in the league. The Greek winger joined Arsenal from Club Brugge and has already made an impression during pre-season, earning a nickname from the fitness coaches.
Tzolis’s move to Arsenal follows a period of growth and confidence-building, particularly during his time in Germany’s second tier with Fortuna Düsseldorf. He stated that setbacks are part of football and that his time in Düsseldorf helped him regain confidence, knowing he possessed the skills to score goals. This experience, he believes, prepared him for the next level at Club Brugge, where he spent two seasons.
Pre-season impact and past experiences
Within a week of his arrival at Arsenal, Tzolis distinguished himself in pre-season fitness tests. He topped the charts in a particular challenge that involves running over a kilometre across varying intervals. This performance led to Arsenal‘s fitness coaches nicknaming him ‘Leonidas’, a reference to the figure from the film 300, known for courage and determination. Tzolis humbly noted that not all players had completed the tests yet but confirmed he was currently first.
His previous experience in the Premier League was as a teenager with Norwich, where he made three starts during the 2021-22 season. That Norwich side finished at the bottom of the league. He later had a loan spell at Dutch club Twente, followed by his move to Fortuna Düsseldorf, which he credits for shifting his career trajectory.
Tzolis reflected on his time at Norwich, noting that the team was not prepared for the Premier League, which made it difficult for him to adapt and play his preferred offensive style. He described himself as a player who thrives in a team that maintains possession and creates numerous chances, a contrast to Norwich‘s more defensive approach. He believes his game has evolved significantly since then.
Joining Arsenal and playing style
The decision to join Arsenal came while Tzolis was in his hometown of Thessaloniki. He had conversations with Mikel Arteta, who advised him to continue playing as he did in the Belgian Pro League. Tzolis found it an easy choice to commit to Arsenal, stating that while other teams showed interest, Arsenal was the most concrete option.
Tzolis models his playing style after David Villa, describing him as a “left-pocket player who always went for goals.” His first pre-season goal for Arsenal, scored in a 4-1 victory against Girona, demonstrated this style, as he cut inside and curled the ball into the far post. He also sees similarities with former Arsenal winger Alexis Sanchez, having taken the same number 17 shirt.
He emphasizes his passion and desire to win, intending to give 100% in every game and duel. Tzolis believes that showing dedication and effort will earn the support of the fans. He is confident in his abilities and aims to demonstrate his qualities in upcoming games, regardless of potential future signings in his position.
Tzolis observed the high standards and intense mentality within the Arsenal squad during pre-season, noting the seriousness with which every player approaches training and recovery. He believes this mindset indicates the team’s readiness to compete for all available titles.
His experience includes being part of a team that won a title and then did not defend it the following year, referring to his time at Club Brugge. He suggests that the pressure to defend a title often lies more with the opposing teams than with the reigning champions. Tzolis scored a total of 33 goals in two seasons for Club Brugge.
Tzolis scored his first Arsenal goal in the friendly win against Girona on Saturday.
Source: theguardian.com
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