Emile Smith Rowe, Arsenal’s dynamic midfielder, is on a positive path to recovery after being sidelined with a number of injuries.

His progress since returning to training and his perspective on the team’s growth along with his own rehabilitation reflect his eagerness to rejoin the squad and contribute to Arsenal’s season.

Emile Smith Rowe, the talented Arsenal midfielder, is feeling optimistic about his return to form after a period sidelined with an injury.

The England international, who had been out of action since October due to an injury sustained in a 5-0 victory over Sheffield United, made a significant step in his recovery by returning to training four weeks ago and featuring in Arsenal’s final Champions League group match against PSV Eindhoven on December 12.

Since then, Smith Rowe has gradually reintegrated into the squad, appearing in another five match day squads, although he has only played a total of 14 minutes.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, speaking before Smith Rowe’s return, praised the player’s approach to his rehabilitation and readiness for a strong comeback. Arteta acknowledged the challenges faced by footballers, such as injuries and fluctuating performances, and commended Smith Rowe for his resilience and determination.

“What he has been through is part of the experience that 95 per cent of footballers have to go through. That’s difficulties, injuries, setbacks, and different kind of performances too. He’s back now, and he can use that in a very powerful way; he will be a much better player,” Arteta said.

Arteta also highlighted the exceptional nature of Smith Rowe’s rehabilitation process, suggesting a positive trajectory for the midfielder’s return to form. “I think he’s on the right path, the way he’s done his rehab, I haven’t seen it like he’s done it this time,” Arteta remarked.

In a recent interview with Arsenal.com, Smith Rowe spoke about his fitness and his eagerness to get back on the pitch. When asked about his rehabilitation and return to the games, Smith Rowe expressed confidence in his recovery. “I’m feeling good now – I’ve been back in training for a while and it’s all good at the moment,” he stated. Addressing the initial concerns about the injury, he mentioned, “At first we thought the injury would be a bit longer, but I started feeling really good after just a few weeks, so then I kicked on and I’m feeling good now as well.”

Discussing the team’s progress this year and the introduction of new players, Smith Rowe observed a noticeable improvement in the squad’s strength. He praised new addition Declan Rice, noting his leadership both on and off the pitch. “The way he demands the best from himself and his teammates is really good. He’s one of the big leaders here already,” Smith Rowe added.

With Arsenal contending at the top of the league, Smith Rowe has noticed an increase in training intensity. “Training is really intense actually. I think it’s got to be like that to keep pushing every day and to keep improving, and the manager demands that,” he said, highlighting the competitive environment at Arsenal that drives continuous improvement.