Ramy Bensebaini could have been lining up for Arsenal against Rennes in the Europa League on Thursday had he got his way.
The left-back, who is also capable of playing in the middle and as a holding midfielder, spent a month at London Colney as he aimed to earn a permanent contract with Arsene Wenger’s side.
Looking set to sign a deal with the Gunners after impressing in his short stay in the capital, the move fell apart at the last minute due to work permit issues.
Spending time on loan with Lierse and Montpellier from Algerian club Paradou AC, the versatile defender then signed a four-year deal with Rennes in 2016 and will this week come up against Arsenal in the Europa League.
Speaking to French publication Ouest-France ahead of the tie, Bensebaini opened up on just how close he was to joining the Gunners during his short time in north London.
“I spent a month there on trial in 2015,” he said, as reported by Sport Witness . “I was training with the first-team and was playing with the reserves.
Ramy Bensebaini during Rennes’ game against Real Betis
(Image: JORGE GUERRERO/AFP/Getty Images)
“I’d spoken to Arsène Wenger a few times. I was meant to sign, but there was a problem with the papers regarding my nationality. In the end, it didn’t happen.
“I’m glad to see Arsenal again.”
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