In his first Champions League press conference since taking over, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta discusses player fitness, the club’s goals, and the excitement around the club’s return to Europe’s elite competition.

As Arsenal makes their much-anticipated return to the UEFA Champions League, manager Mikel Arteta sat down with the media to discuss various aspects surrounding the club and the competition.

From player fitness to managing expectations, Arteta’s remarks provide a comprehensive insight into Arsenal’s preparations.

Press conference overview

Fielding questions from journalists, Arteta touched upon several topics including his debut as a Champions League manager and the importance of fan involvement in the tournament.

Emotions and expectations

When asked about his debut in the tournament, Arteta expressed his anticipation. “It’s been a long time for the club since we have been in the competition, and obviously, it’s the first time for me as a manager as well, so really looking forward to it,” he said.

Club atmosphere and fan involvement

Acknowledging the excitement within the club, Arteta also emphasised the importance of managing supporters’ expectations.

In addition, he reminisced about the unique atmosphere fans bring on Champions League nights, eagerly anticipating a similar buzz in the upcoming matches.

“Every time that I watched it and we weren’t there, I felt it,” Arteta said. “I think you put pressure on yourself. This club has to win [in the] Champions League.

“When I had the job that I had, I feel extremely responsible to try to bring the club to the biggest stages, the biggest tournament, and then be fighting for them. It was a process but we are here and now we have to make the most out of it.”

Player fitness and availability

On the topic of injury, Arteta revealed that Gabriel Martinelli would be unavailable due to hamstring discomfort.

He stated he remains “cautiously optimistic” about Martinelli’s availability for the weekend, pending further tests.

Challenges and opponents

Arteta also discussed the club’s prospects, acknowledging the stiff competition ahead.

“They haven’t lost a game and they have won the majority of their games. It will be a really tough test, I’m sure about that,” he said.

“They are used to winning like every other team that is in the Champions League and it will be a really tough test I’m sure about that.”

Squad dynamics

The Arsenal manager expressed his positive outlook on the mix of experience and enthusiasm in the squad.

He also stressed the importance of treating every game seriously, regardless of players’ experience levels.

We have to treat it like any other game,” he said. “We are used to playing top opposition every week in the Premier League and tomorrow, again, we are going to have a top side fighting against us. The good thing is that we experience that every three or four days in the Premier League so it couldn’t be any different tomorrow.

“It’s great to have that mixture [of  inexperience and experience] and the excitement that creates to play for the first time.

“I sense it. There are players that have played for many years, some of them have won it, and it’s just mixing that experience and, as well, the desire to make your debut in the right way to perform at the highest level.”

Goalkeeping situation

When asked about Arsenal’s goalkeeper situation, Arteta reiterated his commitment to making team-beneficial decisions.

“For me there is nothing different,” Arteta said. “We’ve been doing it for many years. When Bernd was here we brought Aaron and I don’t see any differences.

“It’s my job. I have to answer the questions in the best possible way, in the most honest way.

“As a manager my job is to do what I feel. What I feel that always is the best for the team and for the club, not for Mikel, that’s for sure.”

Player morale and performance

Responding to a question about maintaining player happiness and performance, Arteta emphasised the need for players to feel valued and trusted.

Club aspirations

In the broader context of the club’s goals, Arteta conceded that past disappointments in missing out on the Champions League have been burdensome.

However, he is optimistic about Arsenal’s chances this time, stressing that every day provides a new opportunity to prove oneself.

As Arsenal embarks on this Champions League journey under Arteta, the excitement among fans and the sense of purpose within the club are evident. The manager’s composed approach and emphasis on teamwork and performance will be vital as the club aims to leave its mark on Europe’s premier stage once again.

Press conference key points

• Mikel Arteta had his first Champions League press conference as Arsenal’s manager.
• He expressed pride and excitement about Arsenal’s return to the Champions League.
• Arteta mentioned the general excitement around the club regarding this return.
• Updates were given on injured player Gabriel Martinelli, who will miss the next game.
• Martinelli’s availability for the weekend was uncertain pending further tests.
• Arteta acknowledged the tough challenge of facing a strong opponent.
• He highlighted the importance of mixing experienced and debutant players in the squad.
• Arteta defended his responses about the goalkeeper situation, emphasising his focus on the team’s best interests.
• He anticipated an incredible atmosphere with the fans during the group stage.
• Arteta praised Martin Odegaard’s role in Arsenal’s rebuild and development.
• He mentioned Mohamed Elneny’s return to training after a significant injury.
• Arteta downplayed the inexperience of some players, emphasising their regular exposure to top opposition.
• He declined to discuss individual player responses since the previous game.
• Arteta expressed satisfaction with Fabio Vieira’s performance and acknowledged his lack of previous opportunities.
• He discussed the importance of keeping players happy and valued to maintain consistent performance.
• Arteta admitted feeling a sense of responsibility and desire to bring Arsenal back to the Champions League.
• He suggested that past disappointments in European competitions served as learning experiences.
• Arteta emphasised the need for constant improvement and proving themselves in elite sport.
• He declined to compare his goalkeepers’ styles, stating that each player has unique characteristics.
• Arteta recognised the danger posed by PSV’s Hirving Lozano but emphasised focusing on their own performance.