Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has continued his policy of not revealing injury news, a stance that is increasingly frustrating Premier League rivals.
Arteta’s tactics are cryptic on player fitness, but he insists that’s his job, and he leaves opponents guessing.
Mikel Arteta Defends His Approach
As revealed by the Daily Mail, Arteta added that he’s not trying to mislead, but with injury updates, he’s cautious to avoid any premature conclusions.
Sometimes I can tell you a player is going to be a few weeks and a few months, and I’m not going to lie, but if I don’t know, I’m not going to tell you,” he explained.
Mikel Arteta, who sent an audacious message to Arne Slot’s men prior to the game against Liverpool at the weekend, showed off this strategy, where Bukayo Saka had been doubtful with a hamstring injury but came on and scored against Liverpool.
Aiming for Marginal Gains
It’s in line with Arteta’s thinking of getting the most out of every opportunity. “I don’t want to make it easy for anybody,” he said. ‘They have to work; they have to think; they have to prepare just like we do.’”
Rival coaching staff are reportedly avoiding his press conferences altogether because they will know updates will be inconclusive, his guarded approach.
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Preparing for Upcoming Matches
Arteta will be restricted to his selective disclosure regarding player fitness as Arsenal take on Preston North End in the Carabao Cup and Newcastle in the Premier League.
Arteta’s approach could continue to give Arsenal a tactical edge, with rivals in the dark about the availability of key players as they battle to stay in form.
