Arsenal have a squad packed with quality, with several players on the bench capable of starting for many top teams across Europe. Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres are among the players who have not always enjoyed as much playing time as they might expect, highlighting the depth available to Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners have established themselves among the leading clubs on the continent in recent seasons and continue to work hard to keep their squad competitive. However, having so many talented players creates a challenge for Arteta, who must select just 11 starters for each match while ensuring the rest remain prepared to contribute when called upon.
Arteta demands more from his substitutes
Arsenal rotated their squad for their latest Champions League match against Lille, giving players such as Gyokeres and Merino opportunities to start. However, the pair did not produce the performances expected, raising questions about how effectively the club’s fringe players are taking advantage of their opportunities.
Arteta expects every member of his squad to remain ready, regardless of how frequently they feature. Players who spend time on the bench must continue working hard in training and be prepared to make an immediate impact when selected.
The manager also made it clear that a lack of regular match action should not become an excuse for underperforming. With Arsenal competing across multiple competitions, he needs his entire squad to contribute whenever opportunities arise.
(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Arteta sends a clear message to his players
Speaking via Standard Sport, Arteta challenged his players to take responsibility for their performances and remain prepared even when they are not regular starters.
“They need to train more then.
“What I don’t want is an excuse. ‘No but when I play I lack rhythm’. Yeah? So what do we do then? We send you on holidays?
“So you play, you have to be available. When you don’t play, you have to make sure that you do everything you can to impact the team. Because otherwise the other ones that are playing, ‘I don’t perform because I’m tired’.”
For players such as Gyokeres and Merino, the challenge is to respond when selected and show that they can maintain the standards Arteta demands.
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