Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has claimed that Arsenal have signed their version of Van Der Sar in Petr Cech.
The Chelsea keeper joined Arsenal last month and is expected to have a similar impact as that of the legendary Dutchman.
Arsenal Transfer: Proven winner
Van Der Sar joined United at his peak and helped the club win numerous trophies with his experience, leadership and world class ability.
Wenger expects the Chelsea keeper, Petr Cech to have a similar impact at Arsenal.
The former Chelsea player has won every trophy with the Blues and the Gunners will be hoping he replicates the feat once again.
Wenger claims that Arsenal were close to signing him before he joined Chelsea.
“Before he went to Chelsea we were interested as the guy who brought him to Chelsea is a good friend of mine. One of the guys who was the agent and he told me there was an exceptional keeper at Rennes.
“He was very young when he went to Rennes. One of my assistants, Boro Primorac, his son was a player in Rennes and he said they had a very good goalkeeper. So we knew [but] I think Chelsea were a bit quicker than us.
“He has a good combination between quality, agility, size — he looked like he was built for English football. I think he is a very bright goalkeeper as well. He has an intimidating presence, that is for sure. He makes the goals look small. That’s the kind of charisma he has.
“His move is a bit like Edwin van der Sar’s, who went from Fulham to Manchester United but still had five or six years there, so I don’t see why [Cech] shouldn’t have a few years. He’s very serious, he trains well, has no big problems.”
Arsenal Transfer: Similarities
Van Der Sar joined United at 34 and Cech is 33 now. The similarities are obvious and not just in terms of age. Both players are world class and are hugely experienced.
It remains to be seen whether Cech can have a similar impact, but there is no doubt that the former Chelsea player will improve them and help them challenge for the major honours.
Petr Cech saves: Glimpse of future
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