Arsenal's Flamini 'surprised' by acquisition of Chelsea's Cech

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini isn't quite sure how the team signed Petr Cech from Chelsea, but he isn't complaining, saying the goalkeeper makes his team a contender in the Premier League this season.

The 33-year-old Czech Republic international joined Arsenal after playing second fiddle to Thibaut Courtois last season with Chelsea. Despite manager Jose Mourinho's efforts to keep Cech at Stamford Bridge, team owner Roman Abramovich went ahead with the sale, baffling Flamini.

"I was surprised by Mourinho because he really doesn't do that," Flamini told the Daily Telegraph. "He's a competitor and usually doesn't like to sell any players to his rivals, but it's a good favour for us and now we have to take advantage. It's a top signing. That's why we have been lucky on this one."

Cech is a significant signing, perhaps the biggest acquisition Arsenal has completed in the summer window this season, despite being linked to a number of big players in recent weeks. Flamini believes Cech will be a vital figure for the Gunners.

"It's very important, not only for his quality but also for his character," Flamini said. "When you play at the top level, the leaders on the pitch make the difference. Not only when things go well but especially when things go bad. So, for us, Petr Cech is a top signing. He is someone with character, someone with a winning mentality."

The Gunners are seeking their first English title since 2004.

"For 10 years Arsenal didn’t win anything and we have won the FA Cup twice and it’s starting to become in the mentality," Flamini said. "Each year we have added quality players like Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez, and Petr Cech. These are players who can make the difference at any moment. So I think we have a very good chance."