Valencia unhappy with Arteta’s joke over Mosquera’s brother – Arsenal ‘Threat’ not taken lightly

Arsenal’s signing of Cristhian Mosquera has left Valencia frustrated, and Mikel Arteta’s light-hearted comment during the announcement hasn’t helped matters.

According to Estadio Deportivo and Super Deporte, Valencia were already unhappy about being “forced” into the sale, and now feel Arteta’s remarks about Mosquera’s younger brother were a thinly veiled transfer warning.

During the official unveiling of Mosquera, Arteta playfully handed a pen to 14-year-old Julian Mosquera — the younger sibling — and said: “So you can visualise it for the future. He’s very good.” Though clearly said in jest, the moment didn’t go down well in Spain.

Julian Mosquera is currently 14 years old and one of the standout talents in Valencia’s academy. Under FIFA regulations, he cannot sign for another club abroad until he turns 16, unless his family moves country — something Super Deporte says isn’t being considered.

Still, Julian has previously admitted his dream is to play alongside his older brother, and Arteta’s playful gesture is being read in Valencia as a warning that Arsenal will be waiting.

Mikel Arteta is known for his charisma, but this episode toes the line between clever branding and overstepping. Whether intentional or not, the pen gesture implies future intent — and for a club like Valencia, already wounded by losing one academy star, it felt like a threat.

Arsenal’s academy recruitment strategy has increasingly focused on long-term planning and family integration. Getting Julian Mosquera down the line might not be off the table — and that’s precisely what worries Valencia.

Cristhian Mosquera will join up with Arsenal immediately and wear the No. 3 shirt.
As for Julian, Valencia are expected to double down on keeping him tied to the club — both emotionally and contractually. Arsenal, meanwhile, may keep close watch for the next two years.

Was Arteta just being cheeky — or was that a subtle play for the future?