The seasoned Brazilian has been in impressive form and was named man of the match against Manchester United on Saturday
Mikel Arteta praised David Luiz’s influence, calling the Arsenal defender “a joy to work with”.
Having struggled with injury this season, Luiz is now enjoying excellent form and was named man of the match on Saturday as Arsenal drew 0-0 with Manchester United in the Premier League.
The 33-year-old Brazilian has formed an impressive partnership with Rob Holding at the heart of Arsenal’s defense in recent weeks and has started each of the last four league games, helping the Gunners with three clean sheets.
And Arteta paid tribute to the former Chelsea star for how he continues to perform at the highest level.
“It does him honor because he trains really hard,” said the Arsenal manager.
“This season was very difficult at the start because he suffered injuries but he continued, he understood his role, he knows his role in the team, he is one of our leaders and he is so ready. to continue to improve.
“Even at that age, he still watches his games and his music videos, asking questions all the time. When that happens you can always improve yourself as a player and I think that’s why he behaves the way he currently does.
Arteta added: “David knows the things he’s really good at and the things where there is still room for improvement.
“He’s a really honest man with himself. He won everything and it’s a joy to work with him.
“He showed his character first with the decision he made to join the club when he was with a club where he won trophies and was still comfortable and under contract.
“He wanted a challenge and at this age he tells you everything because normally at this age, the challenge is not sporting but rather a financial decision that you make to go to another country.
“But David loves this game so much and he wants to continue playing at the highest level in a very competitive league. That’s the challenge he’s enjoying right now.
Luiz is on contract at the end of the season after agreeing to a one-year extension last summer following his move from Chelsea in 2019.
Discussions about extending his stay have not yet started, but Arteta says his relationship with the defender means there is no rush to enter official negotiations and his goal should only be to end the season at best.
“No, there are still a few months to continue on this,” said the Spaniard, when asked if talks about a new contract had started. “I talk to him about this stuff all the time, so we’re in a good position.
“What I want is for him to keep playing like this until the end of the season.”
Luiz is an extremely popular member of the Arsenal squad, with both senior and young stars – many of whom he has taken under his wing.
“He’s a great example for them,” Arteta said. “He has a good mix with them between a few jokes and then a little sticking.
“They all listen to him because of who he is and what he did in the game. But also because he behaves on a daily basis, how professional he is and how he does his job.
“He’s one of the main role models we have on our team.”
