What to expect from Arsenal’s new €40m winger Christos Tzolis

Christos Tzolis, the Greece winger, has made a noteworthy return to the Premier League, this time signed by Arsenal for a whopping €40 million. Four years after becoming Norwich City’s joint-record signing for €10 million, Tzolis’s value has skyrocketed, highlighting the potential originally spotted by Norwich when they signed him from PAOK.

Despite displaying an impressive skill set, Tzolis faced challenges that hindered his time at Norwich, including coaching changes and limited playing opportunities. A pivotal move in his career occurred in August 2023 when he was loaned to Fortuna Düsseldorf in a deal that included a permanent option. Tzolis thrived in the German second tier, scoring over 20 goals, leading Fortuna to secure his transfer before he moved on to Club Brugge for €6.5 million.

Position and Performance

Now at Arsenal, Tzolis is arriving with an impressive track record. During his time in Belgium, he netted 22 goals and provided 29 assists across all competitions, also earning the title of Belgian Pro League Player of the Season. Although his Champions League performances were modest with just two goals and one assist, his overall impact in Belgium raised eyebrows, making his Premier League return unsurprising, especially with Arsenal looking to fill the void left by Leandro Trossard.

Playing Style and Strengths

Tzolis is primarily deployed as an inverted winger, typically operating from the left flank. His shooting ability is a standout feature of his game, using his right foot to find the net with power and precision. While he does take numerous shots—averaging 3.1 per 90 minutes—his xG per shot of 0.14 suggests there’s room for improvement in shot selection. His ability to play with both feet adds to his versatility, allowing him to create opportunities through dribbles and quick passes to teammates.

Additionally, Tzolis is known for his effectiveness in set pieces, which is a significant asset for Arsenal, a team that emphasizes dead-ball situations. His evolution since his Norwich days includes a better understanding of off-ball movements, making him a more complete attacking player.

Future Prospects

While Tzolis brings impressive skills to the table, he will need to adjust to the demands of the Premier League. His time at Club Brugge provided a unique advantage; however, he’ll now face tougher defenders and a reduced level of freedom. Despite these challenges, Arsenal’s coach Mikel Arteta seems confident in Tzolis’s ability to rise to the occasion, believing he could be a crucial player in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

FAQs

What is Christos Tzolis’s playing position?

Tzolis typically plays as an inverted winger on the left side of the attack.

Why did Arsenal sign Tzolis?

Arsenal signed Tzolis to enhance their attacking options and replace Leandro Trossard, who played a pivotal role in their title run.