Nuno Tavares, who is currently on loan at Marseille from Arsenal, has confirmed that he will be returning to the London club once his loan spell is over.
The left-back has impressed during his time at Marseille, having struggled at Arsenal after signing in 2021.
Tavares joined the Gunners from Benfica with a long-term contract, as part of Mikel Arteta’s strategy to add youthful players to the squad.
However, he struggled defensively and failed to establish himself in the team.
Arteta refused to include a buy-option in Tavares’ loan deal to Marseille, where he has shown his attacking qualities and scored on his debut.
“Everyone knows that I still have two years left with Arsenal on my contract,” Tavares said.
“We’ll finish the season. I’m here until the end of the season to reach our objectives with Marseille. I can’t tell you much more.
Adding that he “feels good” in Marseille, he added, “At the end of the season, I will return to Arsenal. I can’t say much more.”
Returning to Arsenal next season will be challenging for Tavares as the team already has two established left-backs, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney, although the latter has been linked with a £30m move to Newcastle.
Tavares was recently praised in the French press for his attacking prowess and described as an “indisputable starter” by his teammate, Amine Harit.
Tavares has scored six goals since the start of the season, helping Marseille remain second in Ligue 1.
However, he has also faced criticism for his defensive shortcomings.
The lack of a purchase option in Tavares’ loan deal with Marseille could cause regret for the club if they lose him at the end of the season. Nevertheless, his impressive goal-scoring record is building his reputation in France, and consistent performances until the summer could enhance his value.
Tavares’ performances may also earn him a permanent move away from Arsenal in the future.