By Liam O’Connor Sports Editor — Award-winning sportswriter, covered five Olympics and three World Cups.
Mikel Arteta has issued a stark warning to Arsenal’s fringe players, insisting they must “train more” to avoid excuses for underperformance, while expressing confidence in Noni Madueke’s potential to become a regular this season.
Madueke’s Statistical Impact Contrasts Past Criticism
The winger’s versatility—capable of playing both wide positions—has also been highlighted. Arteta said, I think he can play in both positions. He offers something completely different,
emphasizing that his current role on the left is partly driven by necessity due to Tzolis’ absence.
Arteta’s Focus on Squad Rotation and Competition
Arsenal’s starting XI has remained largely stable this season, with seven players featuring in all six Premier League matches. Rotation has occurred in the Carabao Cup and Champions League, including a 2-0 defeat to Lille. Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyokeres, given rare starts, failed to impress, prompting Arteta’s stern remarks about accountability.
Arteta provides fitness updates on Saka and Madueke 👇
— https://x.com/Arsenal/status/2045135074060820568
Arteta reiterated that everybody is involved
and that it will continue to be like this because they have really deserved that.
The manager’s comments reflect a broader emphasis on competitiveness, with the team aiming to “maintain” its current form as they face a busy period of the season.
Arteta’s message to fringe players remains clear: I hate excuses. We know the role. We know that the competitiveness that we need in the team is at the maximum level.
More on Carabao Cup
Mikel Arteta on Noni Madueke’s end product: “I said when you talk about players being ‘clinical’, sometimes that means scoring five in every 100. It’s about generating volume, more actions & getting into good positions, because he will decide matches.”“He had a really big…
— https://x.com/CastArsenal/status/2110159410135802049