Arsène Wenger’s gamble on Thomas Eisfeld pays off

Arsène Wenger had to be convinced to sign Thomas Eisfeld in January. He’s glad he did now.
Arsenal had been expecting to sign out-of-contract Eisfeld this summer, but were forced to move in January, over fears that his club Borussia Dortmund were ready to offer bumper terms, to make him stay in Germany.
Wenger described bringing the 19-year-old to North London, six months early, as an opportunity to allow him time to settle. A handful of reserve team run outs and a good holiday later, and Eisfeld’s period of transition looks to have been most valuable.
A diminutive, intelligent and technical play-maker, he returns to London this week having made a notable impression during Arsena...