Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains steadfast in his belief that the team doesn’t need a “reset,” despite a challenging stretch that has seen the Gunners take only one point from their last three Premier League games. Recent results include a loss to Newcastle United, following a draw with Liverpool and a defeat by Bournemouth, leaving Arsenal seven points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool. Additionally, a 1-0 loss to Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday has placed them 12th in the 36-team table.
Arteta downplayed the need for drastic change, explaining, “I don’t think about a reset. Nobody works harder than me; I can assure you of that. In one particular area, we just need to raise our effort from 95 to 100.” He declined to specify which aspect he was referring to but expressed confidence in his current approach.
Squad Updates Ahead of Chelsea Clash
Arsenal faces a significant test this weekend as they prepare for a Premier League showdown with Chelsea. Martin Odegaard, who recently returned from injury and played in the midweek match in Milan, is available for the squad. However, Arteta indicated that while Odegaard is fit enough to travel, it remains uncertain if he will start.
Declan Rice’s availability, however, is less clear. The midfielder missed the match against Inter, and his status for Sunday remains uncertain. “I have to be vague about Rice’s situation because there’s no clarity on his fitness,” Arteta said. “He hasn’t trained yet, so it’s uncertain whether he’ll be ready for the weekend.”
Arteta Confident in Arsenal’s Direction
Despite recent setbacks, Arteta remains optimistic about the team’s direction. The manager maintains that a minor increase in effort, rather than wholesale changes, is the key to getting back on track. Arsenal will look to rally as they head to Stamford Bridge, aiming to close the gap in the league standings and build momentum for the season ahead.
