Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has lavished praise on Arsenal defender Piero Hincapié, describing him as a “warrior” and a “top-level player” after the Ecuadorian impressed in his first full start for the Gunners.
Hincapié, 23, joined Arsenal from Bayer Leverkusen on loan with an obligation to buy on summer deadline day, reuniting briefly in spirit with his former coach before Alonso’s move to Real Madrid. The Spaniard, who managed Leverkusen to their historic 2023/24 Bundesliga title, spoke glowingly about the centre-back’s mentality and progress since leaving Germany.
“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. For me, he’s not just an emperor — he’s a warrior.” — Xabi Alonso, via Extra in Ecuador
From Leverkusen Title Winner to Arsenal Starter
Hincapié was one of Alonso’s most trusted players at Leverkusen, making over 100 appearances across three seasons and becoming a key part of the team that lifted the 2023/24 Bundesliga crown. Arsenal moved quickly to secure him late in the transfer window, viewing him as a long-term defensive asset capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back.
After a promising debut in the Champions League against Athletic Club Bilbao, a minor groin injury delayed his integration. But the Ecuadorian marked his first start for Arsenal in style earlier this week, producing a commanding display in the 2–0 Carabao Cup victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
Hincapié’s Standout Stats vs Brighton
| Stat | Piero Hincapié vs Brighton |
|---|---|
| Sofascore Rating | 8.2 |
| Tackles (won) | 1 (1) |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Clearances | 4 |
| Blocked shots | 1 |
| Ground duels (won) | 4 (3) |
| Aerial duels (won) | 3 (3) |
| Accurate passes | 44/47 (94%) |
| Passes in opposition half | 19/20 (95%) |
| Long balls (accurate) | 2/3 (67%) |
source: Sofascore – 30 October 2025
Those numbers tell the story of a calm yet aggressive defender. Hincapié’s passing accuracy (94%) and composure under pressure stood out, while his perfect aerial duel record (3/3) underlined the physical side of his game.
He was instrumental in shutting down Brighton’s wide transitions and helped Arsenal maintain a clean sheet — earning an 8.2 Sofascore rating, the second-highest on the pitch.
Alonso’s Admiration: “He Has the Mentality to Lead”
Alonso’s praise carries weight. The former Leverkusen boss is known for demanding discipline and tactical intelligence from his defenders — qualities Hincapié displayed regularly in Germany and again in Arsenal colours this week.
“Piero has a constant commitment to his work and an ambition that inspires the team,” Alonso said. “It was a pleasure to coach him. He has the mentality to lead wherever he plays.”
That mentality is what Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta values most. With Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba established at the heart of the backline, Hincapié’s versatility offers the Gunners depth across multiple positions — something crucial as they chase trophies on multiple fronts.
Our View: Arsenal Have Found a Gem
In our view, Arsenal’s investment in Hincapié looks shrewd. He combines technical excellence with a fearlessness that fits perfectly in Arteta’s pressing structure. Against Brighton, he didn’t just defend well — he dictated play from deep, often stepping into midfield to progress the ball.
If he stays fit and continues this trajectory, the Ecuadorian could soon challenge for a starting role in Premier League fixtures. More performances like this will make the “warrior” label feel entirely justified.
Key Insights
- Piero Hincapié earned an 8.2 Sofascore rating in Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Brighton.
- Xabi Alonso described him as a “modern defender” and a “warrior.”
- The Ecuadorian completed 94% of his passes and won all three aerial duels.
- He joined Arsenal from Bayer Leverkusen on loan with an obligation to buy.
- Arteta now has a versatile defensive option as Arsenal fight on multiple fronts.
What’s Next
Arsenal return to Premier League action against Burnley on 1 November 2025, and Hincapié’s performance has put him firmly in contention for the squad. Whether starting or from the bench, his confident Cup display has sent a strong message: he’s ready to fight for his place.
👉 Arsenal fans — do you think Hincapié should start more often after that Brighton performance?
By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk
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