Henrikh Mkhitaryan: 'I am happier at Arsenal than I was at Manchester United'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 26 July 2018

Arsenal midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan says that he is happier with the Gunners' attacking football style rather than Manchester United's philosophy under Jose Mourinho.

Arsenal midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan has said that he is enjoying his football more with the Gunners than he did during his time at Manchester United.

Mkhitaryan swapped Manchester for North London in January after falling out of favour with manager Jose Mourinho at United, where he made only 26 Premier League starts during his one-and-a-half years with the club.

The Armenian is expected to play a significant role in Unai Emery's plans at the Emirates Stadium, though, and he confirmed that he is happier with the more attacking football philosophy at Arsenal.

"[This season] will be easier. Why? Because I am starting the season with this team and obviously with the new manager you understand more of what he is asking of you and the new playing style he wants to bring to Arsenal. It's going to be a good season for me and the club," he told reporters.

"Compared to Manchester United, the philosophy is different, the playing style is different, the club is different, it is not comparable to anything. Everything is totally different being here because it's like a new page in the book or in your life. Of course, it was a hard moment for me but I was trying to pass that hard moment.

"I don't know, maybe something was wrong or something was not the way I wanted, but it's life and it keeps going and I was looking forward to a new chapter. Arsenal have always played offensive football. Under Jose, the team was playing a bit differently. But I'm not blaming anyone, I'm not criticising anyone, it's just a different philosophy. I can just say I'm enjoying myself more here than I was in Manchester."

Mkhitaryan made 15 appearances for Arsenal during the second half of last season, scoring three goals.