Former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has revealed how he “suffered” during his time at the Emirates before leaving for Atletico Madrid.
The Uruguay international, who joined the Gunners from Sampdoria in 2018, endured mixed fortunes in north London before moving to Spain on loan in 2020, reports Football London.
Speaking to Uruguayan outlet Ovación, Torreira admitted his struggles in England went beyond football, saying both he and his family “suffered a lot” during his Arsenal spell.
“I had a lot of personal problems,” he said. “The most important thing for me now is to enjoy football again, to help my teammates and make fans happy.”
Torreira made 39 appearances under Mikel Arteta but never fully settled in the Premier League, citing language barriers and homesickness as key challenges.
A Fresh Start In Spain
The move to Atletico Madrid offered a lifeline. “Atletico has always been one of my dreams,” he said after joining Diego Simeone’s side. “Being here at 24 means a lot to me.”
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Although the midfielder hoped to make the transfer permanent, Atletico opted against it, leading him to Fiorentina and later to Galatasaray, where he rediscovered his form.
Now 29, Torreira has lifted three consecutive Super Lig titles in Turkey and become a fan favourite in Istanbul.
As Arsenal prepare to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, Torreira’s story serves as a reminder of how football careers can change with patience, persistence and the right environment.
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