Piero Hincapie believes that Arsenal have signed two ‘incredible players’ after agreeing deals for a couple of Ecuadorian wonderkids. The Gunners confirmed deals for Edwin and Holger Quintero in December.

They are set to arrive from Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle when they turn 18 in August 2027. Despite their tender years, Hincapie is already a big fan of their talents.

He said: “I can’t really speak about their future, but I know they’re both incredible players. They’re such good footballers. They’re doing well and looking after themselves. I hope they join this huge club in wonderful condition [when they’re 18] and we’ll welcome them with open arms.”

On the influx of Ecuadorian footballers into the Premier League, he added: “For a long time, we’ve had players coming to this league and many others as well. I think it’s down to the quality of our youngsters along with the ability to head to Europe and achieve success, leaving a legacy outside of Ecuador. Getting recognised for this is fantastic. I feel that many Ecuadorian players are on that pathway and long may it continue.”

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Hincapie, 24, joined Arsenal on loan from German side Bayer Leverkusen in the summer with an option to buy for £45million. Since then, the defender has made 23 appearances in all competitions for the North London side.

He also scored his first goal recently in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Asked how he has found life with the Gunners so far, Hincapie replied: “I’ve settled in really well and I’m delighted to be here at this wonderful club with brilliant team-mates, top professionals and the staff, so I’m thrilled.

“Of course, they’ve [Arsenal team-mates] helped me so much, going back to day one and the first training session. They’ve helped me out in every area, on and off the pitch, so I’m really pleased. My friends and family constantly support me and do everything they can for me to be happy.”

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Arsenal and Hincapie will be back in action this weekend as they travel to fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the latest instalment of the North London derby.

The Gunners are in dire need of victory having seen their advantage at the top of the Premier League slip away from them over recent weeks. In the meantime, Spurs will also be desperate for victory as they aim to drag themselves away from the relegation zone under interim boss Igor Tudor.

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