Jesus and Zinchenko backed to quickly settle at ‘institution’ Arsenal

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Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko will quickly find their groove at Arsenal, says Mikael Silvestre.

The Gunners snapped up the duo from Manchester City earlier this summer. Jesus, 25, was a £45million purchase and Zinchenko, also 25, cost £30million. Both players have plenty of experience under their belts.

Jesus racked up 58 goals in 159 top-flight games for City and also bagged three against Sevilla in a friendly clash yesterday. Zinchenko, meanwhile, featured 76 times in the Premier League while on the books with the reigning Premier League champions. The stars have also worked with Arsenal chief Mikel Arteta before when he was Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad.

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Silvestre, who made 43 appearances for Arsenal during his playing days, reckons the two men will hit the ground running.

"Both Zinchenko and Jesus have all the necessary qualities and understanding," said Silvestre, who was speaking on behalf of 888sport. "It also helps that Mikel was at City so he’s been coaching these guys. That will be a big help for both of them.

"Zinchenko is more of a wing-back than a full-back due to his willingness to go forward. That’s when he’s most effective, moving into midfield and showing his offensive style of play."

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Arsenal have been busy in the transfer market over the last few weeks. In addition to Jesus and Zinchenko, midfielder Fabio Vieira was drafted in from Porto for £34 million. Goalkeeper Matt Turner and Brazil forward Marquinhos have also been snapped up as Arteta looks to bolster his ranks.

Back in 2008, Silvestre famously snubbed a move to Manchester City mid-medical after then Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger personally called him. The former France international believes the red half of north London will always be a draw for players.

"The name always sounds good in a player’s ears because Arsenal is an institution," he added. "It was a massive club and still is in terms of recognition.

"The last few years they have been winning FA Cups – so it’s not like they haven’t been winning anything at all. It’s London. It’s the Emirates. It’s still an attractive club for players."

Silvestre was speaking on behalf of 888sport. Head to 888sport for the latest sporting odds.

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