KEY POINTS

  • Joe Willock will play the rest of the season with Newcastle
  • Willock will likely return to Arsenal after the current season
  • Willock needs exposure, something that Mikel Arteta cannot give him for now

Arsenal wrapped up a busy Deadline Day by dealing out some of its players.

Aside from Shkodran Mustafi’s move to Schalke 04, another midfielder in Joe Willock was also loaned out for the remainder of the season.

The 21-year-old hopes to get more exposure with Newcastle after seeing his chances dwindle at the Emirates Stadium.

Willock made 16 appearances with the Gunners across all competitions. He saw action in seven English Premier League matches, the last of which was a defeat against the Wolves on Nov. 29, Sky Sports reported.

Since then, the English midfielder saw his playing opportunity decrease. One reason behind that is the emergence of Emile Smith Rowe.

Aside from that, there is the entry of Martin Odegaard, a player that the Gunners got on loan last month.

He hopes to get better chances to showcase his talent, and Newcastle appears to be excited to give him that opportunity. Willock’s signing was announced via social media, something that will hopefully benefit both sides.

Given his talent, club boss Steve Bruce is looking forward to letting the Englishman give other midfielders on their end some friendly competition.

"He has made a very decent impact at Arsenal after coming through the ranks and to make nearly 80 appearances for the club by the age of 21 says much about his development, ability, and character,” Bruce stated. "He is very keen to come here and test himself and he'll be a great addition to the squad."

Joe Willock of Arsenal is challenged by Abdoulaye Doucoure of Everton
Joe Willock of Arsenal is challenged by Abdoulaye Doucoure of Everton Getty Images | Clive Brunskill

What will be interesting is if this will only be a temporary stop for Willock. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is aware that the player needs exposure to shine, something he is unable to provide for now.

But things could change at the end of the season if Willock breaks out.

"At this moment in his career, Joe needs to be playing regularly. At Newcastle United, he is going to a very good club with a top-quality manager and staff. We all wish Joe the very best at Newcastle until the end of the season," Arteta said.

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