Arsenal manager explains why it took a long time before Balogun signed new contract

Arsenal first team manager Mikel Arteta faced the cameras on Wednesday morning ahead of his side's trip to Spain for their Europa League semifinal clash against Villarreal.

One of the questions put to the Spanish football tactician concerned the new long-term contract signed by promising striker of Nigerian descent Folarin Balogun.

The contract standoff between Arsenal and Balogun dominated the back pages throughout the season but the parties were able to reach an agreement, with the striker now committed to his boyhood club until June 2025.

Replying Roger Clarke from Sky Sports, Arteta said on Folarin Balogun: "It's done, we are really happy about it, so he's very excited about it.

"It took a while because we had to undo a really complicated situation that was developing and I think the club made a big effort.

"I think Edu did a great job with Flo and his agent to find the right agreement for him to stay."

Balogun is in contention to be named in the traveling squad to Villarreal as he was spotted training with the first team at London Colney on Tuesday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel