Mikel Arteta has made clear that Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino remain central to his thinking despite fierce competition for places in Arsenal’s midfield.
Mikel Arteta insists Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino remain pivotal figures for Arsenal, despite neither midfielder being guaranteed a place in the starting XI.
Speaking before the Champions League trip to Slavia Prague, Arteta rejected the idea that their importance should be measured simply by how often they start.
“They are playing a pivotal role,” Arteta said. “If we focus on the players that are starting, obviously that’s something else.
“Mikel has started some games already, some important games and he’s coming from a World Cup, a very successful World Cup. We know the value of the players that we have in the squad.
“They need to feel important. I do think that they feel very important and we have to make sure that they continue like that because if they have that spirit and that belief within themselves every time they play, they will make things happen for the team to win the game.”
Competition in Arsenal’s midfield has increased following the summer arrival of Bruno Guimarães, while Zubimendi’s own season has been interrupted by injury.
His only starts this season have come in the League Cup, but Arteta was emphatic when asked about his standing within the squad.
“He’s a very important player for us,” Arteta said. “He’s been a bit unlucky with what happened with the ankle, with the nose afterwards. He had some minutes as well and we have options in midfield.
“Like anybody else, everybody has to be ready. Everybody is going to have the chances to play. Then it’s about performing and helping the team to win football matches. But, his energy, his application, his will to help is unquestionable and he’s an unbelievable player for us.”
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