Vieira explains permanent Hamburg switch and Polzin's influence
Fábio Vieira has turned his Hamburg loan from Arsenal into a permanent transfer. The midfielder scored seven goals and set up five more in 29 league outings during 2025/26. In an interview, he praised the club's supporters, the competitive nature of the Bundesliga and the backing of coach Merlin Polzin, whose contract extension he also valued.
After arriving from Arsenal on loan in September 2025, Vieira completed a permanent move to Hamburg the following summer. Across 29 league matches in 2025/26, he recorded seven goals and five assists, helping HSV secure its place in the division.
He pointed to his family’s positive experience, the city and club environment, and supporters who remain behind the team regardless of results. He also highlighted the Bundesliga’s competitiveness, his desire to keep developing, and the confidence and support provided by coach Merlin Polzin, whose contract extension he welcomed.
The permanent deal may give Hamburg supporters a sense of continuity and could strengthen the bond between the squad and the local community. It might also encourage younger players to see the Bundesliga as a place where regular minutes and coach trust can support development. For Arsenal and other clubs, it may illustrate how loan spells can reshape a player’s career path. Fans, teammates and staff could feel more optimistic about stability under Polzin, though the wider social effect is likely modest.