Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was speaking to the press ahead of his side’s trip to face AFC Bournemouth, and there was plenty to discuss.
Arsenal are back in action following an international break, and Arteta gave updates on several players, with some missing National Team duties, whilst others picked up fresh problems.
Arteta also spoke about the improvement in one of his key players, as well as a staff member who is set to leave the club, whilst Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as England manager also came up. The main talking points from his entire press conference are below.
Mikel Arteta gives injury updates on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli both picked up suspected injuries during the international break, but whilst Arteta admitted he was “hopeful” over Saka, he was less certain that Martinelli would be ready to face Bournemouth.
“With Gabby, he landed yesterday afternoon here so we have very short time to be with him. Yesterday he went outside to do a little bit and see how he’s feeling. Again today will be another step to understand whether we want to take the risk if he’s fit because I know what the player is going to say – ‘I’m going to be fit for sure,” Arteta revealed on Martinelli’s fitness.
Mikel Arteta weighs in on Thomas Tuchel England debate
Former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has taken charge of the England National Team, but many are convinced that an English coach should have been given the job.
However, Arteta has praised the German and highlighted why his appointment should be seen as a positive.
“I understand opinions and the feelings but that’s a responsibility for the FA to say that the first filter is only English managers or whether it’s any manager from any country and to select the best in the moment that we are in right now,” Arteta replied when asked about Tuchel.
“I understand that it can feel sad for some people not to have an English manager, and the history tells you how important this could be, but I think I would take a lot of pride that a lot of managers will do anything to become the England manager.
“That’s related to how we are treated in this country, how much we love the passion, the respect, the history and the way things are done here. I can say personally, you feel so related to where you are, even if you are not from here and I think that’s a huge thing.”
Mikel Arteta praises Jack Wilshere ahead of Arsenal exit
Jack Wilshere is set to leave his role as Arsenal under-18 manager to join Norwich City, and Arteta has heaped praise on his former teammate.
“He’s been great – obviously, everyone knows about the career, about his character, and he’s a really special personality. His attachments to the football club – he’s unique, he has this aura, this charisma, the way he connects to the club and to the people. Since he’s come here, he’s had a real impact,” Arteta stated of Wilshere.
Mikel Arteta praises Kai Havertz Bournemouth moment
Kai Havertz scored his first Arsenal goal against Bournemouth last year, and Arteta has highlighted this moment as one which sparked the German into life.
“I think that was a turning point, for sure. The players took ownership, which is the best thing. They decided to do something for the player,” Arteta pointed out.
“That straight away made him feel special, it made him feel respected and admired. Everybody was willing and wishing the best for him.
“He delivered. That day, the connection towards the supporters went to a different level as well and everything started to click. Since then, the story is unbelievable.”
Mikel Arteta gives Martin Odegaard return update
It is still unclear when Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard may return from injury, but Arteta has now confirmed that he is targeting a return before the November international break.
“Yes, hopefully yes,” Arteta replied when asked if Odegaard could return before the break next month.
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