Mikel Arteta will address the media at the Sobha Realty Training Centre ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium.
After securing a hard-fought victory against Leicester thanks to late goals from Mikel Merino, Arteta remains determined to push forward in the title race despite ongoing squad challenges. Arsenal are still missing four key attacking players due to injuries, including Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz.
West Ham also have injury concerns, with Lucas Paquetá and Crysencio Summerville sidelined due to muscle issues, joining Vladimir Coufal, Michail Antonio, and Niclas Füllkrug on the injury list.
Ben White is back in contention after recovering from his injury, and Arteta is expected to provide his thoughts on Arsenal’s Champions League last-16 draw.
Arteta on Key Topics:
On Martinelli and Saka’s availability for the Champions League ties against PSV:
Arteta is uncertain and defers the decision to the medical team. He acknowledges that Martinelli is slightly ahead of Saka in recovery, but their involvement will depend on their condition and readiness.
On Saka taking a holiday:
He confirms Saka went on a break but suggests asking the player for details.
On Merino’s impact:
Arteta believes selecting any player is a gamble but values Merino’s contribution.
On his title ambitions:
He is not fixated on the title but is focused on doing everything possible to help the team succeed.
On Arsenal’s position in the title race:
He dismisses hypothetical scenarios, emphasizing that the team must focus on what is within their control.
On young strikers getting chances:
Some academy players have been training with the squad, and Arteta suggests they might be called upon soon as they appear ready.
On whether Merino will play as a striker against West Ham:
No specific instructions were given to him or others—Arteta wants players to take initiative on the pitch.
On fine margins in football:
He stresses how small details can make a big difference in outcomes.
On the title race:
Arteta acknowledges there is still a long way to go and that winning matches remains a challenge for all teams.
On the Champions League draw vs. PSV:
He recognizes PSV as a strong opponent and expects a tough match, just like any other in the competition.
On Ben White’s availability:
White is fit to play, but a final decision on whether he starts will be made closer to match time.
Arsenal’s Injury Crisis and Squad Concerns:
Arsenal face a major selection dilemma, with four key attacking players unavailable—two ruled out for the season, including Kai Havertz, who reportedly suffered a torn hamstring. Martinelli and Saka could be out for at least a month, with Saka’s absence possibly extending to two months.
This presents one of Arteta’s biggest challenges at Arsenal, with their title hopes hanging by a thread. Securing Champions League qualification is now a top priority, but squad depth remains a concern. The lack of reinforcements in the January transfer window has sparked frustration among fans, leaving Arteta with tough decisions ahead.
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