Mikel Arteta watches Arsenal win against Inter Milan (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained that the increased size of his squad this season means some players will have to step up.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of this weekend’s match between Arsenal and Manchester United, Arteta explained one of the benefits of having more options than in previous seasons.
Arsenal spent big this summer, bringing in Victor Götchekeres, Martin Zubendi, Eberechi Eze, Cristian Mosquera, Noni Madueke, Pierro Hikapi, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
This means Arsenal have actually coped very well despite being hit with a number of injuries this season, while Arteta feels it would be good for everyone to be a little more careful.
Mikel Arteta’s message to Arsenal players
Watch what Arteta told reporters ahead of this weekend’s big game against Man United at the Emirates Stadium below…
“I think that’s always a very positive thing for the players too, because it means they have to raise the standard of training,” Arteta said.
“You never know how many minutes it will take because the next day you want to change your game and you have a choice.
“That hasn’t happened in recent years for a variety of reasons.
“And once we have it, we have to make sure we are using it in the right way to become a better team.”
Can Arsenal win it all this season?
Arsenal are seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, have won seven of their seven games in Europe so far this season and are also top of the Champions League phase table.
Arteta’s side are also looking forward to the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea, who led 3-2 in the first leg.
If the Gunners can avoid further injuries, they are sure to be a mainstay in all four competitions this season, so could they finally hold out until the end and lift major silverware?
Arsenal have been one of the best teams in Europe for the last few seasons, but they are yet to get over the line, but with the depth in their squad they are arguably closer than ever.
