Injury story

Move from Japan to Belgium

How much of a step up was it moving from Belgium to Serie A?

Biggest takeaway from Italy

Intro.

Newcastle goal: I don’t want to say anything. Mikel said it.

Extra motivation?: Yes, it wasn’t the best atmosphere because we lost, but it wasn’t an acceptable decision.

Taking it out on Sevilla: We are really focused on tomorrow’s game and need to bounce back.

Qualifying: It’s a massive game for us.

Focusing on Europe: It’s not easy to do but we have more depth. We just need to be fit.

VAR improving the game?: I don’t know to be honest. My job is to play and perform on the pitch.

Developing skills under Mikel: I didn’t train to use both feet.

Easy to play both sides?: It’s not easy, but my role changes each game. The most important thing is how to behave on the pitch.

Barcelona soccer school in Japan: I’m not sure if it was a big thing for me, I was 10, but I learned a lot of things.

Jorginho: He has big experience and gives us lots of things. He’s the best example for us.

The UCL for you: It was my biggest dream so I’m happy to play. I just want to play.

Injuries past you?: I hope so! Last season was the toughest season of my career.

Did Arteta tell you that you were going to play loads of different positions?: No!

Japan talent moving to England: Premier League is the best league in the world, we want to play here.

Have you recommended a player to Arteta?: First season I did, I don’t want to say who!

What is it about Arsenal that appeals to you?

How would you describe your playing style?

Playing in different positions

Representing Japan in the Premier League

How much excitement is there back home?

Intro.

The impact Rice has had: We were expecting the best! Big money, but how loved and respected he is at the club. He’s been incredibly strong. Delighted to have him.

Price on Rice?: Not for me to do. When we talk about figures I get lost.

What is about Moyes’ sides?: They’re difficult to break down. We generated a lot at home and couldn’t get through. When you leave a window open they pounce.

What does Phillips pose?: He made his name at Leeds, showed consistency and got a big move. He’s a big talent.

Mental fortitude of Jorginho: That’s Jorginho, his biggest strength is his mentality.

General mindset on football: I don’t want to give more ideas!

Get players back down to earth: Talk about West Ham the next day. What we can improve from Liverpool.

Rice unfazed by big price tag: He’s done a lot in the game. He went through one of the best educations and he loves what he does. He’s got the qualities god gave him.

Potential captain?: He’s got every skill, he’s been captain at West Ham but he doesn’t need to have the armband to have that presence.

Tomiyasu: You just want to hug him. He’s always smiling, it’s just adorable.

What did you notice when he joined?: His presence. He’s got this positive energy about him.

Did you know he was at Barcelona’s academy in Japan?: The culture they grow in, when you talk about habits, it’s about how these people behave daily. Something good is going to happen to this guy.

Gabriel influence: There’s a lot of things happening for him. He’s got a different personal life than before. He’s changed a lot of things and improved his personality.