Club Brugge manager Ivan Leko has admitted he is disappointed to lose forward Christos Tzolis but believes the Greek international has earned the opportunity to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Tzolis is reportedly close to completing a move to Arsenal, with reports suggesting the Premier League side are prepared to pay about £33.8 million for the 24-year-old winger.
The transfer speculation was strengthened after Tzolis was left out of Club Brugge’s squad for their pre-season friendly against Heerenveen on Friday, July 17, a match the Belgian side lost 3-2.
While Leko expressed sadness over losing one of his most influential players, the Croatian coach said he was pleased to see Tzolis rewarded for his dedication and development during his time at the Jan Breydel Stadium.
He praised the forward’s attitude in training, describing him as an example of how commitment and hard work can help players reach the highest level.
Speaking about the impending transfer, Leko told Standard:
“(I am) very happy for him. I am very sad for me on one side, because we are losing a top player. This is one fantastic example of somebody who was first coming on the training base, last staying there. Every training was like a game for him, giving so much for his career, and then you get the reward to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe.”
The Club Brugge manager said the move represents a major achievement not only for Tzolis but also for the Belgian club and the country’s football system.
“(It is a) big thing for him, big thing for Club Brugge, big thing for Belgian football. Good lesson for all young boys that we have, that in football you need to work. Stop the talk, work, try to do everything to improve yourself day by day, exactly what Christos was doing.”
Leko also expressed confidence that Tzolis has the quality to succeed at Arsenal and compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions.
“I am convinced that he will have his minutes, that he will show some highest level in the Premier League and Champions League at Arsenal, and he will show that he is a top player and absolutely deserves to go and be there.”
Tzolis leaves Belgium after impressive spell
Tzolis joined Club Brugge in 2024 from Norwich City in a deal reportedly worth around €6 million, quickly establishing himself as one of the standout attacking players in Belgian football.
During his time with the club, the Greek forward recorded 43 goals and 45 assists in 108 appearances, becoming a key figure in Brugge’s attacking setup.
His performances reached another level during the 2025-26 campaign, when he contributed 22 goals and 29 assists in 52 matches across competitions.
His consistency, creativity and attacking output reportedly attracted interest from several clubs before Arsenal emerged as the leading destination.
Arsenal move offers new challenge
A move to Arsenal would represent a significant step up for Tzolis, giving him the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League and compete regularly in the Champions League.
For Leko, the transfer is evidence that players who combine talent with discipline can progress to football’s biggest stages.
Although Club Brugge will lose one of its most productive attacking players, the manager believes Tzolis’ next chapter at Arsenal will provide the platform needed to demonstrate his ability at the highest level.