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Arsenal star Piero Hincapié hailed as a ‘warrior’

By on November 1, 2025

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has heaped praise on Arsenal defender Piero Hincapié.

After joining Bayer Leverkusen back in 2021, the Ecuadorian flourished in his career under the Spanish boss’s guidance. They won the Bundesliga title, a DFB Pokal trophy, and a German Super Cup together at the BayArena.

In 45 appearances across all competitions, the 23-year-old made five goal contributions last term; moreover, he helped his side keep 11 clean sheets.

At the end of last season, Alonso decided to join Real Madrid to succeed Carlo Ancelotti; on the other hand, having been impressed by Hincapié’s displays, Arsenal decided to sign him last summer. The Gunners have signed the player on an initial loan deal, and there is an obligation to make the move permanent next summer.

Upon moving to the Emirates Stadium, Hincapié has struggled with fitness problems. After recovering from his issue, he made his full debut against Brighton and Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup fourth round fixture in midweek.

Now, on Ecuadorian outlet Extra (via Sport Witness), Alonso states that Hincapié is a modern-day defender and has excellent game awareness.

Moreover, he is excellent with the ball at his feet and can play precise diagonal passes. The former midfielder further states that the South American is a ‘top-class’ player and is a ‘warrior’.

Hincapié hailed as ‘emperor’

Alonso said:

“Piero is a modern defender, very adaptable and with great game awareness. He has more confidence on the ball and is improving his decision-making. Now we see him playing precise diagonal passes and making those runs from behind.

“He is a top-level player. For me, he [Piero] is not just an emperor: he is a warrior. He has a constant commitment to his work and an ambition that inspires the team.”

Hincapié is a left-footed versatile player as he is comfortable in the LCB position, plus the LB role. Alonso even used him in the LWB position at Leverkusen.

The youngster, valued at around £44m by Transfermarkt, was flawless on his full debut last time out, which would give Mikel Arteta the confidence to give Gabriel Magalhaes rest in cup competitions.

Not only Hincapié, but Mosquera has also enjoyed a bright start this season after joining Arsenal from Valencia this summer. He is also very young and the North London club have built a defensive department that can serve over the next decade.