Declan Rice reacts as Arsenal share Christian Norgaard message
Arsenal have successfully bolstered their midfield options by signing Christian Norgaard and Martin Zubimendi this summer.
The former Brentford man and the Spain international will compete for places in midfield alongside England star Declan Rice.
Rice produced a career-best return of nine goals and 10 assists last season, establishing a strong relationship with 2024 summer addition Mikel Merino.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will hope that Norgaard and Zubimendi will help the former West Ham to continue excelling.
Rice reacts as Arsenal make fresh Norgaard announcement
Norgaard showed his class in midfield for Brentford last term by scoring five goals and producing four assists in 34 Premier League outings.
Arteta’s men will now hope that the 31-year-old’s creative exploits can help them to top-flight glory, after the North Londoners finished second in the Premier League in each of the last three seasons.
Meanwhile, Arsenal shared photos of Norgaard in their new home kit on Thursday, 17 July, alongside the caption: “Christian Norgaard. Day One at The Arsenal.”
That post was liked by Rice.
Norgaard departure plays key role in tough summer for Brentford
Football Insider verdict
While Arsenal will benefit from Norgaard’s services next season, the Denmark international’s exit was a major dent to fellow London side Brentford.
| Christian Norgaard stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 4 |
The Bees are likely set for their toughest season since winning promotion to the Premier League back in 2021, after boss Thomas Frank left to join Tottenham earlier this summer.
Frank’s departure will be the toughest change for the West Londoners to deal with, but Norgaard’s move to Arsenal has also handed the Dane’s former side a major gap to plug.
Keith Andrews’ Brentford responded to Norgaard’s departure by signing Jordan Henderson.
However, the 35-year-old, who had not played in the Premier League since 2023, is a less dynamic midfielder than the new Gunners star.
Meanwhile, the Bees are set for more hardship as Tottenham remain interested in Yoane Wissa, while Manchester United continue to eye Bryan Mbeumo.
The fact that Premier League title chasers Arsenal have viewed Norgaard as a strong option proves how much of a loss he will be for Frank’s former side.