Piero Hincapie….

Morning all.

We already knew that Sporting Lisbon would be our Champions League quarter-final opponents but now we know the first leg will take place on Tuesday, April 7th at 8pm (UK time), at the Estádio José Alvalade. The second leg will take place at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, April 15th at 8pm (UK time) with both fixtures being broadcast by TNT Sports.

Before we return to European football again though we have a League Cup Final to focus on as well as trip to St Mary’s to face an in form Southampton team in the FA Cup. Sandwiched in between the two is an international break. Basically, a load of friendly fixtures in preparation for this summers World Cup. Whether the big tournament goes ahead or not I’ve no idea but all that is going on in the world, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if it ends up being postponed.

A crucial approach in sport is to take one challenge at a time which for Arsenal is Sunday. It’s a trophy which we possibly need to win more than want to win in my opinion. That might sound bonkers because of course every Arsenal fan will want to see the players win the game, I know I do but for the players, it’s just as much about tasting success for the first time together. To go out and show the determination to get over that final line and to experience the feeling of success.

Individually, a number of players have already had their hands on a trophy but collectively, in the Arsenal colours, they haven’t. I imagine each and every one of the players, manager and staff, are as desperate for that to change as much as we fans are.

Man City have been there and got the trophy winning t-shirt too many times to mention. I’m sure they will go into this game as favourites, if not with the bookies, the neutrals because outside the Arsenal family, it’s become evident that fans of football would rather see a club which is waiting to hear the outcome of their 115 footballing breaching charges, than to see well run club lift the trophy.

Honestly, I think if Mikel Arteta’s players can replicate the kind of performance we saw against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday, or better of course, we’ll have a chance but if the nerves kick in and mistakes are made, it could be a struggle.

A player who hasn’t struggled at Arsenal since his arrival back in the summer is Piero Hincapie. I love watching him as first and foremost he defends, strongly too, but other than getting forward on his side of the pitch when he can, he doesn’t stray from his defensive duties. I certainly don’t think I’ve seen him popping up on the right or centre of midfield. “Inverted” is the fancy name I believe but he doesn’t really do that. Arsenal.com has a great piece on him, his journey and football in Ecuador.

I’ve picked out a few of questions he was asked during his interview.

How exciting is it to be involved when the team is doing so well in all competitions – why do you think this team is doing so well?

I think we are a family and we stay united at all times, especially the tough ones, which is the key factor. This team has incredible conviction. I can’t help but admire it. I think our conviction and working hard to improve are crucial. There’s still a long way to go, but I’m convinced we can achieve something big.

Ecuador football looks in a great place, players at some of the best clubs in Europe in you: Pacho, Caicedo, Estupinan – why is it in such good health at the moment?

For a long time, we’ve had players coming to this league and many others as well. I think it’s down to the quality of our youngsters along with the ability to head to Europe and achieve success, leaving a legacy outside of Ecuador. Getting recognised for this is fantastic. I feel that many Ecuadorian players are on that pathway and long may it continue.

And producing lots of great young players – notably the Quintero twins who have signed for Arsenal, tell us about them?

I can’t really speak about their future, but I know they’re both incredible players. They’re such good footballers. They’re doing well and looking after themselves. I hope they join this huge club in wonderful condition [when they’re 18] and we’ll welcome them with open arms.

Edwin and Holger Quintero, who turn 17 in August will join Arsenal during the summer of 2027. 

Edwin is left-footed, quick and a skilful dribbler. He operates as a right winger, likes to take on opponents and has a catalogue of skills. Holger is a technically gifted, right-footed, attacking midfielder who links play with his progressive vision and also possesses the ability to beat opponents with quick feet. (Arsenal.com)

The twins are recognised as two of the most exciting young talents in South America and both have been capped at under-17 international level for Ecuador. Arsenal have paid £9 million for both according to reports which could prove to be a fantastic double deal.

These kind of deals are important for the club as they are looking after the future. Not every player coming through the academy is going to be a success story so searching far and wide for talent/potential makes sense. Signing players before their valuation rockets makes sense. 

Catch up in the comments.