Reyes has confidence in Arsenal next season

Former Arsenal striker José Antonio Reyes returns to North London today to take part in the Emirates Cup. The Spaniard is currently plying his trade with Spanish side Atletico Madrid, who take on the Gunners in today’s 4.15 PM match.

Reyes enjoyed a mixed career at Arsenal, arriving amongst lots of hype but leaving as a player who in the fans’ eyes was weak mentally and one who could not adapt to his new surroundings.

He excited the Highbury faithful with his darting runs and scored some amazing goals, but the decision was eventually made by manager Arsène Wenger to allow him to leave as he struggled to settle in London.

And it is a decision that Reyes has not regretted, despite experiencing a “dip” in his career and subsequently struggling to establish himself at club and international level. He said: “Any player would like to play for Arsenal, any player.

“But I don’t have any regrets. I took my decision because obviously I thought it would be better for my career. I had a good time here and won some trophies with the team. I think they deserve all the praise they get.

“I am happy, I’ve said it before and I am very hopeful to play this season with my team. My success will depend on how much effort I put in.”

Although the Gunners have lost two experienced players this season, Reyes says that the squad that Arsenal have is still very strong and that you certainly could not discount them from challenging for honours next season.

He added: “Arsenal are one of the strongest teams in the Champions League. We have to admit they lost a couple of important players but they have an extraordinary young team and they are going to develop.

“They have a great team here in England and are one of the strongest teams in Europe.

“In fact I think Arsenal are getting stronger. Players like Francesc Fabregas are doing incredibly well. Ever since he made his debut with Arsenal you could see that he had a lot of quality.”