Mikel Arteta has laid down the gauntlet to Arsenal’s younger abilities, encouraging them to show they deserve a spot within the senior squad this season.
His feedback got here after teenage prospects Max Dowman and Marli Salmon stood out throughout Arsenal’s 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore.
The Gunners claimed victory in entrance of twenty-two,813 followers on the Nationwide Stadium, courtesy of a first-half purpose from Bukayo Saka. Nevertheless it was the involvement of two 15-year-olds that sparked the most important speaking factors post-match.
Dowman and Salmon have been launched for the ultimate 25 minutes, marking their senior debuts. By full-time, seven academy merchandise have been on the pitch, highlighting the membership’s continued give attention to youth growth.
“Very proud of all the youngsters,” stated Arteta following the match. “I believe they’re able to play at that stage at 15 years previous for my part due to the setting and tradition that’s inside the workforce.
“When anyone makes you are feeling so snug and so assured straightaway you may go and do it. A minimum of it offers you one of the best probability after which it’s important to have the qualities this child has to ship in opposition to opposition like this.”
When requested if Dowman, who turns 16 in December, could possibly be concerned repeatedly this season, Arteta remained measured in his response.
“We don’t know with all of the younger youngsters. On the finish they’re in and across the workforce always and so they getting used to the dynamics and the calls for.
“And particularly elevating the bodily ranges as a result of the calls for they should carry out and influence on the stage is absolutely excessive bodily requirements. They’re getting there and that offers them an excellent platform and so they must earn it.”
Gabriel and Timber Absences Defined
The sport additionally provided updates on the health of key first-team gamers. Each Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber have been lacking from the squad, and Arteta supplied perception into their conditions.
“With Jurrien he’s nonetheless not there. He’s nonetheless not totally coaching but with us,” stated the Arsenal boss.
As for Gabriel, who has been managing a hamstring challenge: “Gabi had a bit niggle the opposite day in coaching. As a result of the truth that he has been out as long as nicely we’ve to handle him.
“We now have been in Spain, completely different pitch, completely different circumstances, go to the UK, completely different ones, come right here, once more a number of adjustments. We now have to minimise the chance with him.”
Regardless of profitable the match in regular time, Arsenal then participated in a pre-arranged penalty shootout, which they narrowly misplaced 6-5.
Subsequent up for Arteta’s aspect is a conflict with Premier League rivals Newcastle, additionally happening in Singapore, as preparations for the brand new season proceed.
