Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has candidly admitted to experiencing sleepless nights ahead of the team's crucial Premier League clash with Liverpool. This revelation comes as a surprise, given that he usually sleeps "like a baby" before significant matches.
Arteta's restlessness is primarily due to the uncertainty surrounding the fitness of key players Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber. The suspension of William Saliba and potential absence of Riccardo Calafiori have further compounded his anxiety.
Saka is currently grappling with a knee injury, while Timber is dealing with muscle problems. Both players' conditions are still under assessment, adding an element of unpredictability to Arsenal's preparation for the upcoming match.
Optimism amid uncertainty
Despite these concerns, Arteta remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the Liverpool match. He encourages his squad to view the match as a "beautiful day," urging them not to dwell on potential setbacks that could leave them trailing seven points behind their opponents.
With Saka and Timber potentially sidelined due to injuries, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior may be called upon to bolster Arsenal’s defence against Liverpool’s formidable attack led by Mohamed Salah.
Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, said:
"Normally I prefer to go to bed with the line up in my head so I can sleep like a baby. But sometimes it can not be as you have to wait for the next day. Sometimes two days before. Or just three days before you already have the idea 'against this team this is what I am going to do' but when you have uncertainty with injuries that is tricky.
"But when it comes down to reacting against a difficult situation, we don't feel sorry for ourselves - we face it."
Praise for team's potential
In addition to rallying his troops for battle, Arteta also took time out to praise his team's potential and mindset:
Mikel Arteta added:
"We are a team that knows how good we are as well and how difficult we can be for the opponents. And having that ruthless mentality is something that I love."
This statement reflects Arteta’s belief in his team despite facing adversity ahead of their crucial clash against Liverpool. While it remains uncertain how Arsenal will fare without some key players in their lineup, one thing is clear: Manager Mikel Arteta will not let these challenges dampen his team's spirit or determination. His optimism and faith in his squad's potential are testament to his leadership, setting the stage for an exciting Premier League showdown against Liverpool.
