Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta discussed his team’s injury concerns and long-term plans ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Leicester City. Arteta began by stating that there would be few changes to the team, but he was unsure if Thomas Partey would be available due to an injury. Gabriel Martinelli, according to Arteta, is doing well and will return as soon as possible.
Arteta stated that Arsenal wants to keep their best players for a long-term project when asked about Bukayo Saka’s contract situation. He went on to say that he didn’t have any updates on the contract, but that the club is close to reaching an agreement. He was questioned about Willian’s situation, but he had no answers.
Arteta was also asked about protecting Bukayo Saka on the pitch, who has recently been subjected to some difficult challenges. According to Arteta, every referee strives to protect the game and individuals in the best way possible. He added that Saka is the center of attention, and they must keep that in mind as a team while also understanding what their opponents are doing. Arteta acknowledged that referees have a responsibility and must perform their duties.
When asked about the title race, Arteta stated that more teams are involved and that every day will be a race. He went on to say that he was trying to persuade his players to train and play better against Leicester City. Arteta praised Leicester City’s recent form and stated that Arsenal would have to be at their best in order to defeat them.
Arteta was also questioned about Leicester City’s recent win over Manchester United. Leicester City, he said, played extremely well and should have been two or three goals up in the first half. He admitted that Leicester City is having a good season and that Arsenal would have to be extremely good to beat them.
Arteta was asked about Arsenal’s victory over Aston Villa and how it affected the team’s mood and belief. Arteta stated that the victory demonstrated the team’s ability to rebuild in adversity. He praised the team’s character and said the victory was a significant boost for them.
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Arteta was also asked about the team’s resilience in recent games. He stated that winning games in various contexts and situations has boosted the team’s confidence. He added that in a sport with so many games to play, the team cannot give up.
Finally, Arteta was asked about the new signing Martin Odegaard’s impact. Odegaard’s experience and quality, according to Arteta, should allow him to settle in quickly. He praised Odegaard’s intelligence and technical ability, saying he was a valuable member of the team.
Finally, Arteta discussed Arsenal’s injury concerns, long-term plans, and the upcoming match against Leicester City. He praised his team’s resilience and character while acknowledging Leicester City’s recent form. Arteta emphasized the importance of winning games in a variety of contexts and situations, and he was confident in his team’s ability to do so.