Piero Hincapie joins Arsenal

“Piero Hincapie is a prime example of our concept of developing young players with outstanding talent into professionals with whom we can achieve our own goals, while at the same time establishing them at the very top of the world at club and national team level,” said Bayer 04 managing director sport Simon Rolfes. “We have also successfully followed this path with Piero, who now wants to prove himself in a different environment. In view of an exceptionally good time together in Leverkusen, we wish him all the best for the future with a heavy heart.”

The 1.84-metre-tall left-footer went from being a largely unknown young professional in Leverkusen to a globally recognised and respected player. “My time at Bayer 04 has given me a lot, not just as a footballer. I grew in confidence and maturity in Leverkusen, and here I learned what is possible with hard work and commitment,” said Hincapie. “I will never forget the support of all the staff and fans at Bayer 04 and I wish the club all the best for a continued successful future.”