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Marouane Chamakh admits Robin van Persie’s potential exit could give him a chance to prove his worth at Arsenal
Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh scored one goal last seasonPhoto: via Wikimedia – Valentin Trijoulet
Marouane Chamakh has admitted Robin van Persie’s departure could give the Morocco striker a chance to prove his worth at Arsenal.
The 28-year-old has scored 12 goals in 63 appearances after joining the Gunners from Bourdeaux on a free transfer in the summer of 2010.
However, Chamakh struggled to tie down a regular starting spot in Arsène Wenger’s first-team last season, with the Morocco international featuring just 11 times in the Premier League.
Arsenal captain Van Persie, who scored 30 goals in 38 league appearances as the Gunners finished in third place, revealed his intention not to sign a new deal at The Emirates with one year left on his current contract.
Manchester City, Manchester United and Juventus are chasing Van Persie’s signature, and Chamakh admitted the Netherlands internationals’ possible exit could boost his chances of getting more playing time – Wenger has already signed Lucas Podolski and Olivier Giroud this summer.
“Yes [Van Persie’s departure could benefit me]. If I am staying here with Arsenal, I will do my best for the team and give the maximum,” Chamakh told the Sun.
“Last season was difficult. We were playing with just one striker and that striker was the best player in Europe. There was not a lot I could do.
“I was upset because I thought I could have played more but football is like that. Sometimes you do not have a chance.
“I hope this season I will play more than last. I have not spoken with the manager but I will soon.
“In the first six months after signing I had lots of games but after that I only played a few. Now I hope this season will be good for me and the club.
“Yes, I need more confidence. But to be confident I need to play more. I am determined to stay.”
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