My hunch about Flamini’s future
1 comment January 14th, 2008
Arsene has spoken about the contract negotiations with Mathieu Flamini, and stated that talks over a new deal are “ongoing”.
He describes himself as “hopeful” that something will be agreed. Now feel free to accuse me of reading something into nothing, but there seems to be to be a big difference between being “hopeful” and being “confident”.
My hunch is that Flamini could leave. The situation is reminiscent of the one that Edu found himself in during his time at the Emirates. The Brazilian never really felt like his first-team place was secure at Arsenal, so he found himself moving on (sadly, his ill fortune with injuries followed him to Spain).
At the moment, Flamini’s spot in the team is not in question. But when he looks around and sees the likes of Gilberto, Diaby, Diarra and Denilson all competing for his place in the side, he might be inclined to think of a hefty Bosman signing on fee and warmer climes.
That said, I hope he stays. I just don’t feel sure of it – and frankly, Arsene doesn’t sound any less doubtful.
