Cristhian Mosquera still remembers the surreal moment he was thrown into action at Anfield in August.
Just five minutes into Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool, William Saliba limped off injured, leaving the young Spaniard to step in for only his second Premier League appearance.
“It was crazy,” Mosquera recalled. “I hadn’t played there before, but I felt calm. To come on the way I did was incredible.”
That composure has since become his trademark. Since joining Arsenal from Valencia for £13 million in July, the 21-year-old defender has impressed with his poise and maturity, making eight appearances across all competitions and quickly earning the trust of Mikel Arteta.
In an interview with The AthleticMosquera credited Arteta’s influence as key to his decision to move to North London.
“Arteta played a very important role,” he said. “He spoke to me with such confidence. He told me I was exactly the profile he needed. That made my decision easy.”
Sporting director Andrea Berta also played his part. “He’s done an incredible job,” Mosquera said. “You look at our squad and it’s crazy. The club is capable of great things, and that’s partly thanks to Andrea.”
Mosquera’s departure from Valencia sparked controversy in Spain, with the club citing his refusal to renew his contract. But the player insists there is no bitterness. “It was complicated, but I’ll never say anything bad about Valencia,” he explained. “No one can take away my Valencianismo.”
At Arsenal, Mosquera has settled into a dressing room rich in Spanish speakers, including Martin Zubimendi, David Raya and Mikel Merino. “It’s a very good group,” he said. “David told me to enjoy myself and be who I am. That’s what football is about.”
The defender believes this Arsenal team has the mentality to achieve something historic. “There’s an atmosphere of winners,” he said. “We know we’re capable, so why not believe in it? Everyone’s happy and optimistic that this is going to be the year.”
Mosquera has also been impressed by Arsenal’s young academy products, particularly 15-year-old Max Dowman. “His movements are Lamine Yamal-esque,” he said. “When I found out he was 15, I couldn’t believe it. He’s going to be world-class.”
Despite fierce competition from Saliba and Gabriel, Mosquera remains patient.
“I know I’m capable of playing, but I’m surrounded by great players who help me improve,” he said. “Not being nervous on the pitch has helped me a lot. I don’t think the fans knew much about me, but I’ve shown them I’m capable.”
