During last summer’s transfer window, Hamburg pulled off a move by signing Fabio Vieira on a season-long loan from Arsenal.
With little hope of ever getting regular game time at Arsenal, Vieira managed to complete the move before the transfer window closed – something he’s glad he did considering the important role he’s played for HSV this season.
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“It was not easy for me,” Vieira told Sport Bild, reflecting on last summer.
“It was obvious that I wasn’t going to get a lot of playing time at Arsenal, so I wanted to leave. There were only two days left in the transfer window and I was alone in London, waiting to see what opportunities would come up. I was nervous because I didn’t know what was going to happen next.”
“It’s great that things are going well in Hamburg. I’m happy here and enjoying football again. The last two years at Arsenal didn’t go well for me. The move to Hamburg is a very good and important step in my career,” he added.
Can HSV sign Fabio Vieira permanently?
HSV reportedly want to sign Vieira on a permanent basis. However, the challenge is that the Bundesliga side cannot afford the €20 million purchase option agreed with Arsenal.
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As such, they are likely to try to negotiate a lower fee, with Bild reporting that HSV have set a multi-million dollar budget for the transfer.
“I have no influence on the purchase choice – we will see what happens in the end,” Vieira said of the possibility of staying at HSV.
“I’m happy here. HSV is a great club with a long history. Before I moved, I watched a video highlighting the club’s achievements, such as winning what is now the Champions League and the league title. It was impressive. Hamburg is also a wonderful city. My family and I feel very comfortable here.
“The fact is that I still have a contract with Arsenal (editor’s note, until 2027). But in general, it is always good for a player to know which club he is playing for early on – to participate in pre-season with the team and integrate quickly.”
The Portuguese midfielder has made 23 appearances for HSV so far this season, scoring 5 goals and providing 5 assists.