Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says his side is fully prepared ahead of their crucial match against Aston Villa, insisting the players are “ready” for the challenge. “We are ready, for tomorrow's game that's for sure,” Arteta said as he assessed his squad’s mindset.
Speaking about Villa’s recent form, Arteta praised the opposition and their manager. “For what they've been doing, the way they've been playing. We know the manager and the incredible job that he has done.” He dismissed the idea that Unai Emery might have extra motivation facing his former club. “I don't know, I think when you look at Unai, his career, he's had an impact everywhere he's gone. In my opinion he never needs anything extra, he has enough in himself.”
Arteta also responded to Emery’s comments branding Arsenal as favourites. “That's his opinion and we have to respect that.” He acknowledged the threat posed by Ollie Watkins and Villa’s attacking unit, saying: “Yeah, I think the collective threat that they have in how they create chances, and the individual quality they have too.”
Rotation has become a new strength for Arsenal, with Arteta welcoming the depth available. “We haven't had this situation too many times… we want to be in that position, to have people in contention, whether it's to start the game or to finish the game… that's what we have at the moment with every player.” He added that the flexibility boosts match preparation. “It's great before the game, you can accommodate players for the games you expect to play… you have options to change the game.”
With injuries slowly easing, Arteta hopes stability will grow. “I hope that we are in that position, and then again we can maintain and decide for the freshness of the team and what is required on that day.” He noted this is a challenge shared across the league.
Arteta confirmed Arsenal will remain vigilant during the January transfer window. “We always have to be ready. We are going to be alert, and we know where the risk can come in terms of the squad.” However, he ruled out departures for now. “At the moment it is very clear that there is no option to do that.”
Reflecting on past injury-hit campaigns, Arteta stressed the importance of learning and positivity. “We learn from those situations and I think looking for solutions and being positive, and transmitting that is a good thing.”
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FELIX MAKONA
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