Chattanooga FC's club-record signing has arrived and is ready to make his mark in MLS NEXT Pro.
Chattanooga Football Club announced the signing of midfielder Jude Arthur back on March 9th, and after nearly a month-long wait, Arthur has finally arrived in Chattanooga and has joined his teammates in training.
The Ghanaian midfielder signed with CFC in a club-record deal for an undisclosed fee and joins the Boys in Blue from Georgian first division side FC Samgurali Tskaltubo.
The former Ghana youth national team player has linked up with his teammates for his first training sessions this week and has already started settling into life on and off the field.
"It's a great feeling to be here in Chattanooga," said Arthur to ChattanoogaFC.com. "First of all, the vibe and welcome from everyone—the coaching staff, technical team and my teammates—it's very incredible. I already feel at home!"
Attraction of growth of game in the US
Arthur began his professional career with the renowned Liberty Professionals, where he spent his academy years, in the Ghana Premier League. Liberty Professionals has produced some of the greatest Ghanaian footballers in recent history, including Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari, Asamoah Gyan and many others.
"I'm a person who likes challenges," said Arthur. "It's good to get out of your comfort zone. I've played in Finland and Georgia (the country), so why not this challenge? Football is really starting to grow in the US, and I took this challenge because of that.
"I can't wait to see all of the fans in the stands and show them all my positive qualities. Football is about the fans. I'm excited to meet them."
'Winning is everything'
The 24-year-old also detailed what kind of player fans can look forward to watching.
"I'm mainly a defensive midfielder, so I'm the player that makes sure to win a lot of duels and keeps the tempo of my team. I'm a good passer of the ball, and of course I try and help win every game. For me, winning is everything."
While Essien was understandably one of Arthur's biggest influences growing up, he also cited another hugely-influential player from one of Ghana's neighboring countries.
"Essien was a big influence for me in terms of his aggressiveness, determination and his focus. I really like Yaya Toure also. He's tall like me, and I strive for the composure and qualities he brought."
Arthur was also able to watch the beginning of CFC's season from Georgia, while he waited to make the journey across the Atlantic.
"We're a possession-based team; a team that keeps the ball to win. It's good to know that I'm joining a team that likes the keep the ball and wants to win, so it's a great feeling."
Fans can purchase tickets for Saturday's match against Inter Miami CF II at Finley Stadium here.
