Opinion: Three reasons why Hector Bellerin should stay put at Arsenal

Arsenal right-back Hector Bellerin has been linked with a potential return to Barcelona this summer following an average to good season with the north London club. The Gunners have lost some key players to the Camp Nou outfit over the years, and Bellerin could be the next in line with his family having shifted back to Catalunya. Bellerin is currently torn over his decision to join Barcelona owing to his recent extension at the Emirates, and there is every possibility that he could stay put in the Premier League.

Calcio Insider looks into potential reasons why Bellerin could remain with the FA Cup holders despite regular calls from Barcelona, who are desperate to re-sign their academy graduate.

Loyalty: Bellerin has regularly stressed that Arsene Wenger has had a huge part to play in his development and this has stopped the Spaniard from potentially placing a transfer request. The former La Masia graduate initially came in as a right-sided winger, but Wenger alongside Bould taught him the art of defending which has, in turn, cemented his position in the Gunners’ first-team.

Less Pressure: With the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Ozil around (should they stay next season), Bellerin does not have the burden of putting in a standout performance from right wing-back. The 22-year-old earned plaudits for his change in momentum in the backend of last season, but the focus is always on other recruits at the Emirates unlike at Barcelona.

Fear of Failure: Not many players have shifted Arsenal for Barcelona with great success, Thierry Henry and for some level, Cesc Fabregas managed to live an impression at Camp Nou. However, the likes of Emmanuel Petit, Alexander Hleb, Alex Song, and Thomas Vermaelen all bizarrely failed in their quest to impress. The failure to perform at Barcelona could potentially see fans turn on him, and this could hinder his game time ahead of next year’s World Cup.

Image – Getty