By By Elizabeth Ugbo
English defender Ezri Konsa says he feels at home at Arsenal after joining the club from Aston Villa this summer and helping the Gunners maintain their perfect Premier League start. Konsa made his Arsenal debut at Villa Park last week before featuring in Sunday’s 2-1 comeback win over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. The 28-year-old impressed with his defensive display and quickly adapted to Mikel Arteta’s system.
Konsa Praises Arsenal’s Character
Arsenal fell behind after Morgan Rogers scored an early goal. However, the Gunners responded strongly and turned the game around.
Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard scored to secure another important victory for Arsenal.
Konsa praised the team’s mentality after conceding so early.
“Conceding so early isn’t great, and I know we take a lot of pride here in keeping clean sheets,” Konsa said.
“However, I thought the reaction was second to none. It was fantastic.”
He added that the response showed Arsenal’s character and winning mentality.
Konsa Enjoys First London Derby
Konsa also reflected on his first London derby at the Emirates Stadium.
The defender said he enjoyed the atmosphere and praised Arsenal supporters for their backing.
“I really enjoyed the occasion. My first London derby and I thought the fans were fantastic, superb.”
He also highlighted the supporters’ role during difficult moments.
“They stayed behind us throughout the whole game. Without them, these games are impossible.”
Strong Defensive Display Against Chelsea
Konsa delivered an impressive performance alongside Gabriel at the centre of Arsenal’s defence.
The former Aston Villa player contested 12 duels and won eight of them. Those numbers represent his best Premier League figures since December 2024.
He also produced a crucial moment during Chelsea’s counter-attack.
Konsa dispossessed Morgan Rogers as Chelsea looked to threaten Arsenal’s defence.
The challenge sparked a loud reaction from the Emirates crowd.
Konsa Faces Former Teammate Rogers
Rogers and Konsa previously played together at Aston Villa. The pair also remain good friends away from football.
However, Konsa said their friendship had no influence during the match.
“He is a good friend of mine, but on the pitch, it’s a different story.”
Konsa spotted an opportunity to make the tackle and committed to it.
“I saw the opportunity to go in and make the tackle, and it came off,” he explained.
Defender Quickly Settles at Arsenal
Despite joining Arsenal only a few weeks ago, Konsa already feels comfortable at the club.
He credited his teammates and the coaching staff for helping him settle quickly.
“I felt right at home from day one,” Konsa said.
“The boys have been top, the staff have been top.”
Konsa also praised Arteta’s football philosophy.
He believes Arsenal’s playing style suits his strengths as a defender.
“I love the boss’ way of playing,” he said.
“The amount of quality that we have makes things easier.”
Konsa Urges Arsenal to Stay Focused
Despite Arsenal’s strong start, Konsa knows the season remains long.
The defender urged his teammates to maintain their focus throughout the campaign.
“I think it’s important you go into different games with confidence,” he said.
“We’ve started really well, but it’s still early days.”
Therefore, Konsa believes Arsenal must approach every match with the same mentality.
“We’re going to take it game by game and day by day.”
Arsenal will hope to maintain their momentum as the Premier League season continues.
Konsa’s early performances have also strengthened competition for places in Arteta’s defence.
