Willian claims he endured the “worst” period of his professional career when he lost his place in Arsenal at the beginning of he season, but feels he is finally approaching something close to his best.
The Brazilian signed a three-year contract worth a reported £200,000 a week when he joined Mikel Arteta’s on a free transfer from Chelsea.
Some disappointing performances led to some critics questioning Arteta’s wisdom in signing the player, particularly on such reportedly high wages, but he finally looks to be repaying the Spaniard’s faith in his ability.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Willian said: “It really was a very difficult start, apart from that first game against Fulham, where I had a good performance [setting up two of the three goals in a 3-0 win], I managed to make a good game.
“Even after that game there were some games that we won, I even had a good game, but then we ended up getting a bad streak.
“I also got a bad streak and I think my worst professional time to date, since I went up at Corinthians and was sold to Ukraine, then I arrived at Chelsea, without a doubt. This phase that passed now was the worst time that I think I lived as a professional.
“Of course, when you live in a difficult moment, you get really upset and try to find solutions, a way to improve, try to help the team.
“That’s what I’ve been doing all this time, I never stopped training, to work, to dedicate myself as much as possible.
“It took a little while to leave, but lately in the last games I’ve been playing well again, standing out with assists, playing well. So I’m happy to be back to find my good football.”
Willian has four assists in his last five appearances while Arsenal have lost just once in their last 10 matches in all competitions.
