Mikel Arteta has shared insights into the productive discussions he had with Arsenal’s owners, the Kroenke family, during the international break.
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The Gunners manager traveled to America for these meetings, which covered several crucial topics about the club’s future.
Transfer Strategy and Squad Concerns
One of the key topics discussed was Arsenal’s transfer strategy. After a period of heavy investment in the previous seasons, the club took a more cautious approach in the recent summer window, leaving some gaps in their squad.
Arteta confirmed that the club had explored options to strengthen their attack, with players like Alexander Isak, Victor Gyokeres, and Arda Guler being linked with moves to the Emirates.
The absence of Martin Ødegaard has put a strain on Arsenal’s attacking options, and Arteta is keen to address this.
Reflecting on the talks, Arteta emphasized the positive nature of the discussions, explaining that the meeting wasn’t just about transfers but also about the broader direction of the club.
“We had time to talk about the [transfer] windows, but as well about the club, how we’re feeling about what we’re doing and how we’re feeling about where we’re going to take the club,” he said.
Another significant topic was the departure of sporting director Edu, a crucial figure in Arsenal’s recent transfer dealings.
Arteta revealed that the club is actively looking for a replacement, with names like Roberto Olabe and Tomas Rosicky circulating in the media. However, Arteta suggested that Arsenal could promote from within, with Jason Ayto, a key figure behind the scenes, being a potential candidate.
“Jason is very good, and all the team,” Arteta said. “Edu and I probably got a lot of praise, but the work behind that is done by these guys.
The ambition is phenomenal… the speed of how people react and how they are willing to say: ‘OK, that’s it, let’s move forward,’ is something great.”
Arteta also spoke about the ambitions of the Kroenke family and how closely they follow the club’s progress.
Despite the distance between them and the team, Arteta feels a strong connection and support from the owners.
“They have so much experience in sport because you feel the ambition, especially when you are there,” Arteta said, expressing his appreciation for their hands-on approach. “They are very far away, but how closely they live every day with us and what we want to achieve together, it feels great.”
As Arsenal continue to build on their recent successes and look ahead to the challenges of the season, Arteta’s talks with the owners underline a shared vision for the future.
The club is aiming to build on their progress and address any gaps in the squad to maintain their push for silverware.
In conclusion, Arteta’s candid reflections reveal a club that is both ambitious and united in its goals, with plans in place to strengthen the team and ensure sustained success in the years to come.