This archive report was first published on 24 June 2020.
Published on June 24, 2020, Arsenal has extended the contract of Brazilian defender David Luiz, a move that has left many fans surprised.
Luiz, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea on a 12-month deal set to expire next week, has been handed a new one-year deal by the Premier League side.
The decision comes as Arsenal's board attempts to settle their players ahead of a dramatic end to the current season.
According to Mikel Arteta, the team's manager, the decision to extend Luiz's contract was made due to the numerous injuries the team has suffered.
"We have no choice. We have to do it because of all the injuries we've had. It's very complicated with the timing of it and some of the legal issues that are involved. We're trying to resolve this and I'm confident I can keep them all," Arteta explained.
Luiz has been a key player for Arsenal, but his recent performances have been marred by mistakes, including a penalty conceded and a red card in a Premier League tie against Manchester City.
Despite this, Arsenal's chiefs have decided to keep him on, citing the need to settle their players ahead of the end of the season.
