Former Arsenal midfielder Denilson recently brought his spell in Brazilian football to an end by joining Middle East outfit Al Wahda.

Despite signing at Arsenal as a youngster, Denilson failed to establish himself as the years progressed. This led to his return to Brazilian football with São Paulo, where he has been for the last five years. He initially joined the club on a two-year loan spell from Arsenal before making the move permanent in 2013. During this period, he has been a first-team regular for the club. Somewhere along the line, he appears to have felt the need for a new challenge.

His four-year contract that was signed with São Paulo in 2013 was coming to an end and he made the switch toAl Wahda in the summer. The midfielder has spoken about the club’s form and his personal experiences about playing in the Middle East. This region has been home to several Brazilian players in the past. It may be one of the reasons behind Denilson finding himself happy at Abu Dhabi. Being settled is also one of the key towards his good form according to the midfielder, who says that he is giving his 100% in all games.

The player has one goal in 17 appearances forAl Wahda.“I am very happy here, my family as well. This was more important for me as my family, my son and my wife are very happy here. I just focus on my work – that is why I came.

It is not about just the life, I have safety here but you have to work.I come to work and to enjoy, also. It is an amazing country. You can go to Dubai or stay in Abu Dhabi. You can go anywhere.In my work, I just focus 100 per cent and give my best all the time in training and in games,” said Denilson.