Mikel Arteta’s Praise for Liverpool
Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, recently praised Liverpool as the preeminent team in the Premier League, particularly following their significant signings during the summer transfer window. Liverpool has made headlines by securing Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for a staggering £125 million ($175 million), setting a new record for transfers in the UK, along with adding Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for £100 million, plus an additional £16 million in potential add-ons.
Arteta’s Reflections on Competition
During a press conference on Friday, Arteta acknowledged the alterations in the competition for the championship due to Liverpool’s acquisitions, stating,
“They are undoubtedly the strongest team. By bringing in possibly the two most impactful players available in the European market, they’ve positioned themselves very favorably.”
He emphasized the need for Arsenal to focus inwardly, stating,
“We must concentrate on our own growth to surpass them.”
Arsenal’s Recent Performance and Transfers
Arsenal recently faced Liverpool, suffering a narrow 1-0 loss before the international break, yet the Gunners have actively engaged in the transfer market themselves, investing over £260 million to bring in eight new players. One of those additions, Piero Hincapié, arrived on loan from Bayer Leverkusen just before the transfer deadline and is poised to debut in the upcoming match against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium.
Player Availability and Contract Negotiations
In terms of player availability, Bukayo Saka is sidelined as he recuperates from a hamstring injury, but both Ben White and William Saliba are in contention for the match. Additionally, Saka and Saliba are currently discussing new contracts with the club, as their existing agreements expire in 2027. Arteta commented on their negotiations, saying,
“It’s an ongoing process, and the dialogue between the club, Andrea, and the agents is very positive. Both players wish to remain with us and contribute to the club’s future, which is encouraging. Andrea will manage how these discussions progress.”
Upcoming Match and Managerial Changes
The match against Nottingham Forest will mark the debut of their new manager, Ange Postecoglou, who has taken over from Nuno Espírito Santo. Arteta expressed admiration for Postecoglou, explaining,
“His ability to imprint his philosophy on the team is impressive, and his playing style is clear. It will undoubtedly be a challenging fixture.”
Edu’s Return to Arsenal
This game will also see Edu, a former sporting director for Arsenal, return to face his old club. Edu left Arsenal last November to become the global head of football for Forest, a club owned by Evangelos Marinakis, who also has stakes in Olympiakos and Rio Ave. Arteta downplayed the need to compare Edu and current sporting director Andrea Berta, who has overseen a transformative transfer season, remarking,
“Edu contributed significantly to the club’s evolution during his tenure, and Andrea has also stepped into a unique situation and succeeded admirably. Comparisons aren’t necessary when you have two capable individuals like them.”
