Arsenal's new signing Willian admits there are frustrating elements to playing under Mikel Arteta but says the experience is proving to be a steep learning curve.
The Brazilian forward swapped life at Stamford Bridge to move across London in the summer on a free transfer and is already a regular feature in Arteta's side.
His manager's approach is a far cry from what Willian has been used to previously, though, as Arteta has adopted the tactically disciplined 'positional game' approach of his former Man City superior Pep Guardiola.
But while Arteta's style has provided some new challenges for the 32-year-old, Willian admits he is relishing working with the Spaniard.
"It’s been a cool, new experience. I hadn’t worked with a coach with that mindset," Willian told Globo Esporte.
"The positional game doesn’t mean that you have no freedom on the pitch, you have the freedom to move, but many times you have to respect the position, what the coach asks, the instructions, understanding that it’ll be better for the team.
"It may happen that you don’t touch the ball and get frustrated, but Mikel always says that, wait a minute, the ball will arrive. I've been learning a lot."
Willian has made six appearances so far this season, though has been utilised in various positions as Arteta has frequently changed up Arsenal's formation.
The Gunners' boss was forced to defend Willian following his latest showing against Man City though, after Arteta opted to play him in a more unnatural centre-forward role.
"We need to have the versatility to play in different formations, occupying different spaces," Arteta said after the narrow 1-0 defeat. "I believe it was a game for him, the way City play, the way they attract opponents and the spaces that can be used.
"He was really convinced as well. It was obviously really hard to leave two strikers on the bench but it was a tactical decision."
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Arsenal's inability to create chances in the second half was later criticised, but Arteta was happy with Willian and feels he will only improve.
Asked if he was pleased with Willian’s performance, Arteta added: "Yes, in some moments better than others.
"But I think he will grow and understand better that position as we use him in other occasions, maybe surround him with other players as well. But I’m happy with the game he had."
