In a recent interview, Denis Suarez revisited his brief yet impactful loan spell at Arsenal, a period that continues to elicit mixed emotions among Gunners supporters. Despite facing numerous challenges during his time in north London, the 30-year-old Spanish midfielder insists he has no regrets, valuing the opportunity to be part of one of the world’s elite football clubs.
Suarez joined Arsenal on loan in January 2019 under the guidance of then-manager Unai Emery. The Spanish coach, having failed to secure Christopher Nkunku from Paris Saint-Germain, sought alternative options and turned to Suarez in an effort to bolster his squad. At that time, Arsenal were navigating a competitive landscape, looking to solidify their position for UEFA Champions League qualification and striving for success in the Europa League. However, a disappointing conclusion to the season saw the Gunners miss out on a top-four finish and culminated in a 4-1 defeat to Chelsea in the Europa League final, dashing their hopes for a return to Champions League football.
During his short tenure, Suarez made just six appearances, none of which were starts, primarily owing to ongoing fitness issues that significantly curtailed his contributions. In an interview with The Athletic, he expressed his disappointment, stating, “It was such a shame, honestly. I arrived at Arsenal and had physical problems. I wasn’t able to reach my normal level, no matter how much I tried.” He added, “It was disappointing for me, but also for Unai. I know he was criticized for signing me because he requested me and rejected other options because he knew me.”
Despite the setbacks, Suarez holds Unai Emery in high esteem. Following his departure from Arsenal, Emery has expertly revitalised his career, first at Villarreal, where he captured the Europa League, and more recently leading Aston Villa to qualification for the Champions League in his first full season. “Unai is a top coach and I think he was treated very unfairly at Arsenal,” recognised Suarez. “He took over from Wenger, who had been there for so many years. The patience shown to Wenger was not extended to Emery during his tenure.”
Suarez also acknowledged the current success Arsenal is enjoying under Mikel Arteta, yet he contended that Emery could have achieved comparable results had he received adequate support during his time at the club. “You just have to look at the job Unai has done at Aston Villa. His record speaks for itself. If they had given him a longer run, Arsenal would soon have been fighting for the league and the Champions League,” he claimed. He further suggested that the talent pool at Villa Park now rivals that of Arsenal’s current roster, hinting at the potential that could have been unlocked under Emery's leadership.
Suarez’s reflections not only illuminate his personal experiences but also provoke thought regarding what might have transpired had Emery been afforded more time at Arsenal. This narrative adds a complex layer to the ongoing discussions surrounding the club’s managerial transitions. The evolution of both Arsenal and Emery exemplifies the profound impact of leadership within football and the potential for success that arises when timelines are properly aligned.