Premier League club Arsenal announced that Olivier Giroud, Laurent Koscielny and Francis Coquelin have decided to stay at Emirates Stadium for few more years. The French trio have signed new long-term contracts with The Gunners, as Arsene Wenger was motivated to keep his most important players in London.
French striker Olivier Giroud has returned to the starting line up in recent games, as Alexis Sanchez took the left-wing position. The forward’s amazing scorpion-kick against Crystal Palace could be one of the best moments of Arsenal’s current season and a serious contestant for a goal of the year.
Giroud has started only in three Premier League games, but he has managed to score six goals.
Giroud crucial for Arsenal
“Olivier has huge experience in the Premier League and he has become a great and complete player since he has joined our team. He is dangerous for opponents’ defence, but he is also great defender, when our rivals cross the ball into our penalty-box. So it is a great news for us.” – Arsene Wenger said.
Laurent Koscielny moved to Emirates Stadium in 2010 from Ligue 1 side FC Lorient. Arsene Wenger was criticised for this transfer, but Koscielny has gone on to make nearly 300 club appearances and he is now one of the best central defenders in the world. The Frenchman is one of the longest playing member of the squad, second only to Francis Coquelin, who plays at Emirates Stadium since 2008.
'Francis Coquelin is focused every day'
Francis Coquelin has been one of the biggest surprises for Arsenal’s supporters. He has developed into a crucial member of the starting eleven, after he has returned from a season long loan at Charlton Athletic in December 2014. Wenger admits that French central-midfielder is one of the hardest-working players in his history as Arsenal manager.
“We are very pleased that three of our important players have decided to commit their future with our club. I’m very happy, because they are experienced, world class players, who can play with huge success for Arsenal Football club.” – The Gunners’ manager said.