Mikel Arteta Provides Team Update, Discusses Crystal Palace Match, and Reflects on His Evolution

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media in advance of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace, which is scheduled for a 17:30 GMT kick-off. The following are the main points from his press conference: Regarding player availability, Riccardo Calafiori and Declan Rice are cleared to play, while Oleksandr Zinchenko “has a chance of making it.” However, the match comes too soon for defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who remains sidelined. On facing Palace again, Arteta commented: “It is different, but we don’t have to analyse them too much. I am sure both sides will change a few things and personnel. We know what it’s like to go to Selhurst Park and we have to prepare for that.” Arteta stated he was “really pleased” with Gabriel Jesus’ performance on Wednesday. Discussing the team’s progress this season, he remarked: “The unity, the connection and the fact we are competing on big fronts right now. We haven’t managed to do that in recent years so that’s positive.” He noted that building a connection with supporters “takes time,” but after five years, he feels there is “a common respect and feeling” between him and the fans. When asked if he has considered his plans for five years from now, he responded: “No. You have to live in the present in this job. You can prepare for the mid-to long-term but you have to be in the moment to understand how things are working and putting processes in place to make better decisions.” He admitted that upon his arrival in 2019, he was “very obsessed with the tactical aspects of the game” and realized he “to evolve” when football was paused during the Coronavirus pandemic.