Mathieu Flamini has rejoined Arsenal on a free transfer.
The France international initially signed for the Gunners back in July 2004, and he went on to make over 150 appearances for the club. However, on the back of his best season, he decided against renewing his contract and signed for Milan in 2008.
Flamini, who won the FA Cup during his first spell in England, helped the Rossoneri to the Serie A title in 2011 and the Supercoppa Italia in the same year. He made just 21 outings in all competitions last season, and his deal expired at the end of the campaign.
Arsene Wenger has now handed the 29-year-old a two-year contract at the Emirates Stadium after he impressed during training, with the option of a further 12 months. In doing so, he becomes their second signing of the summer, after youngster Yaya Sanogo.
“We’re very pleased,” Wenger told the club website. “He is a player of real quality, with a fantastic work rate and great mentality. As we know, Mathieu is a strong midfielder, but is also is comfortable playing in defence too. He is a very good addition to our squad.”
Whilst Arsenal are at the stage where any addition to their squad is welcome, this signing will not appease fans who are desperate to see world class players heading to their club. Already this summer the likes of Karim Benzema, Gonzalo Higuain, Luis Suarez and Wayne Rooney have been linked with the North London giants, yet none have arrived.
And all this whilst their fierce neighbours Tottenham Hotspur have splashed the cash on quality such as Roberto Soldado, Paulinho and, this week Erik Lamela, with reports suggesting Christian Eriksen will also sign for the White Hart Lane club shortly.
