Mohamed Elyounoussi has addressed recent transfer speculation linking him with a move to Arsenal while also reflecting on his time with Southampton.
Mohamed Elyounoussi’s career seems to be back on track at Southampton after thoroughly struggling to break into the first team after joining the Saints a few years ago. After a difficult period and then a subsequent loan to Celtic for a couple of years, the Norwegian has finally made it into Ralph Hasenhuttl’s plans at the Saints.
This term, the 27-year-old attacker has become a regular for Southampton under Hasenhuttl, scoring a solitary goal in the process. Despite not being too prolific, the Elyounoussi is proving a crucial part of the Southampton attack, capable of playing in different final positions in the final third.
The attacker briefly opened up on his time at Southampton, with his comments appearing on Hampshire Live via the club’s official site.
Elyounoussi said, “When I got the opportunity when the Saints came in and gave me an offer, it was a huge dream. It didn’t work out as we thought at the beginning; I needed time to adapt, I had a few injuries, and things just didn’t go my way, really. I needed time to get better, to get game time and find myself against and get some confidence.”
“I am really happy I went through something like that and came back to show a better side of myself. I don’t know many players that have been sent out on two loan seasons and then come back to make it in the team. It shows the belief that the club and the manager have in me to give me a second chance, I’m just glad that I took it.”
Furthermore, Elyounoussi also addressed speculation regarding his future at the club. Arsenal reportedly hold an interest in the attacker, with the north London side targeting a January move. However, from the Norwegian’s comments, it appears he will stay put at the club, despite his contract expiring in 2023.
Elynounoussi said, “It was nice to come back to see the boys again and the people who work around the club, it’s still the game people. I remember, even though I didn’t play much, I had a really good time at Southampton, both inside and outside. My family enjoy it here. We’re settled down now and my daughter has just found a nursery, so we’re back to where we belong.”
Whether Elyounoussi remains committed to Southampton will only be clear if and when Arsenal decide to table an offer to sign him. For now, the Norwegian forward appears to be happy and content at St. Mary’s Stadium.
