ARSENAL stirred some curiosity among their supporters when they invested £55million in Ezri Konsa over the summer.

Having just claimed the Premier League title with a stellar defense, the Gunners opted to bring in a new centre-back.

However, after nine matches in North London, Konsa has quieted skeptics with a series of standout performances.

The strongest testament to the former Aston Villa player’s impact is that Arsenal travels to Bayern Munich for their Champions League match this Wednesday without concern over William Saliba’s absence.

Maintaining control over his England teammate Harry Kane would be another accolade for Konsa, who has stepped up commendably in Saliba’s absence due to back issues.

This development is not surprising to those who have long recognized his talent, like Steve Avory.

The former Charlton academy director recruited Konsa at the tender age of 12, recognizing his potential immediately.

Avory shared with SunSport: “He has always possessed the capacity to move seamlessly, like a Rolls-Royce, getting to top speed effortlessly.

“There were times in youth teams when he seemed fortunate to escape trouble using his pace.

“But what truly stands out now is his exceptional understanding of the game and his timing in tackles.”

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Those attributes were evident during the match at the City Ground last Sunday, where Konsa played a key role in Arsenal’s seventh clean sheet of the season during a 1-0 victory.

The 28-year-old defender was solid at the back, and his decisive challenge on Nottingham Forest striker Liam Delap late in the game showcased his performance.

Avory has witnessed similar challenges from Konsa before, but what was remarkable early on was his skill on the ball.

In fact, the England international often played in midfield during his time in Charlton’s academy, with the transition to centre-back occurring as he matured.

Jason Pearce was an early teammate of Konsa in defense and played a significant role in acclimating him to top-level football, which will be critical ahead of their encounter in Munich tomorrow.

Former Addicks captain Pearce commented: “He gained invaluable experience playing in League One at a young age.

“At that level, it’s essential to be strong defensively, win your duels, and make headers while seizing moments to showcase your playmaking ability.

“When I watch him in the Premier League today, he consistently exhibits the same qualities he displayed at 18 or 19.”

“Had he come through a bit younger, he might have been suited as a right-back or midfielder.

“Regardless, the evolving demands for composure on the ball at centre-back make him ideal for that position.”

“While we often reference John Terry or Rio Ferdinand, I liken him more to Rio. He’s not merely a ball-playing centre-back—he possesses a full skill set.”

Konsa’s move to Brentford in the summer of 2018 marked a significant juncture in his career after he shone at Charlton.

He was acquired by the then-coach Dean Smith for his ball-handling skills, with the aim of enhancing his physicality.

Richard O’Kelly, Smith’s former assistant, remembers working with fitness coaches to develop a program that Konsa diligently followed.

O’Kelly remarked: “If you’re building from the back, you need talents like Ezri on your side.

“The only concern when he first arrived was that he wasn’t in peak physical condition.”

“Ezri needed to enhance his gym work to complement his skills, and that’s precisely what he did.

“He showed the necessary commitment and reaped the rewards.

“He continually sought to improve and always reviewed video footage. His work ethic is unmatched.”

While Konsa’s physique has transformed into that of a formidable defender, his character remains the same.

Avory remains connected with Arsenal’s new star and has received invitations to watch him play for England at Wembley.

Though Pearce keeps less regular contact, Konsa still makes the effort to support him, recently sending a signed shirt for a charity event.

He is known for his altruism; Smith’s decision to sign him at Aston Villa—and previously at Brentford—was heavily influenced by Konsa’s positive impact in the locker room.

O’Kelly added: “He was never about ‘me, me, me.’ He had genuine concern for others.

“Ezri could intuitively recognize when someone was struggling, thanks to his high emotional intelligence.

“He was a thoughtful player and an excellent person. He embodied everything one would hope for in a teammate.