Arsenal finally lands Arshavin

Arsenal Football Club is delighted to announce that Russian international midfielder, Andrey Arshavin has joined the Gunners from Zenit St. Petersburg on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

Arshavin, 27, who played a key part in Zenit’s UEFA Cup winning campaign last season, was also a member of the Russian EURO 2008 squad in which he scored two goals from his three appearances, earning him a place in the ‘Team of the Tournament’.

Manager Arsène Wenger said: “We are delighted to have signed Andrey Arshavin, he is a player I have admired for a long time. He is a versatile player with great experience, who will add real quality to our squad. Andrey is an exciting impact player with a huge amount of ability and has been an influential force with both Zenit St Petersburg and the Russian national team in recent seasons.”

After completing his move to the Gunners, Arshavin said: “I am so happy to be joining Arsenal. They are one of the leading football clubs in the world, with a group of fantastic young players and a great manager. I am looking forward to making the Arsenal supporters happy and helping this great Club win trophies.”

Due to his participation in the UEFA Champions League with Zenit St Petersburg this season, Andrey will not be available to play for Arsenal in this competition for the remainder of the 2008/09 season.

Andrey will wear the number 23 shirt.

Finally, Arsenal is signing a big name. A record signing indeed. But is this a wise move as well as a timely move? Can Arshavin really be able to help Arsenal's faltering season? Struggling in the Premier League at 5th place 5 points behind the UCL qualifying position, looks shaky in both the current campaign of the UCL and FA Cup, Arsenal is really really having a tough and disappointing season. I don't really hope they can mount any serious challenge for titles or trophy. My aim now is just wish to see them can at least claim 4th in the league when the season end in May...