Mikel Arteta could be about to do something he rarely does at Arsenal with a major hint made in his press conference.
The Gunners are preparing to battle Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday evening, where the visitors will be seeking redemption from last season.
Unai Emery’s side got the better of Arsenal twice last term, winning both home and away to dent Arteta’s title hopes.
Ahead of the fixture, the Arsenal boss faced the media where he was met with a wall of questions not all relating to Saturday’s game.
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Mikel Arteta hints at Arsenal academy chances
As expected, Arteta was asked about Arsenal’s transfer situation, with an update on Eddie Nketiah’s future provided.
Another interesting segment of the press conference was when the manager was asked to comment on the lack of business done by other clubs this summer.
The Spaniard shared his experience as Arsenal boss in the market and shed light on a rare opportunity he could provide for those at Hale End this season.
“Another thing that is very important is to look at our academy as well, it has to be approached in the right way,” Arteta explained.
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“Now we have some promising talent coming out there, so we have to create some space for those kids to establish themselves and come very close to the first team as well.”
It’s a rare admission from Arteta, who has come under criticism in the past for the lack of talent coming from Hale End to the first team during his reign.
The past few weeks have echoed the concern, with Emile Smith Rowe and Charlie Patino departing.
Arteta’s management of Patino has been questioned, however, his statement in Friday’s press conference suggests that things could be about to change.
Hale End’s top talents should be alerted to Arteta’s comments
While Arteta’s track record with promoting players from Hale End has been poor up to this point, there is a feeling that the chances will come this season.
Already, the manager has confirmed that Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly will train with the first team throughout the 2024/25 calendar, with other stars also knocking at the door.
17-year-old Ayden Heaven featured heavily in Arsenal’s pre-season alongside the duo, with Arteta not short of blossoming talent to nurture at the Emirates.
A breakthrough for an academy star is overdue for the Gunners, making the season ahead an exciting chapter to possibly unfold at Hale End.
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