The former Arsenal captain believes that another player was more of a complete package than he was for the Gunners
Patrick Vieira, one of Arsenal's most celebrated players, believes another ex-Gunners midfielder Abou Diaby could have surpassed his own achievements if not for injuries.
Vieira, who won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups with Arsenal, spoke highly of Diaby's potential and abilities.
Vieira recognises Diaby’s special talent
Diaby joined Arsenal in January 2006 at the age of 19 and went on to make 180 appearances for the club. Known for his endurance, pace, and dribbling ability, Diaby was a box-to-box midfielder who posed a significant offensive threat.
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Vieira, speaking to former Manchester United defender Gary Neville on the Stick To Football podcast, noted, "I think he was going to be an even better player because he was more complete, more technical. He had more quality in the last 30 yards."
Injuries Cut Short a Promising Career
Despite his immense talent, Diaby's career was plagued by persistent injuries, including a severe ACL problem that significantly limited his playing time from 2010 onwards. As a result, he was released by Arsenal in 2015 and later joined Marseille.
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Vieira noted Diabys struggles with injuries and the impact they had on his career saying, "The injuries he had really stopped his progression but Diaby was a really good one.”
Unfortunately, injuries continued to hamper his progress, leading to just six appearances in three and a half years at Marseille before Diaby decided to retire from professional football aged just 31.
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