Live Arsenal Press Conference – Mikel Arteta Talks Brentford, Real Madrid, Kai Havertz & Team Updates
Arteta Speaks Ahead of Brentford Clash Following Real Madrid Triumph
Mikel Arteta addressed the media before Arsenal’s Premier League match against Brentford at the Emirates Stadium this Saturday, their first outing since a memorable 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The upcoming fixture poses an intriguing challenge for the Arsenal boss. While the Premier League title seems out of reach—especially after Liverpool’s slip against Fulham—it raises questions about what might have been if Arsenal had taken all three points against Everton. That result could’ve widened the gap to nine points ahead of their visit to Anfield.
However, with the second leg at the Bernabeu looming, squad rotation this weekend becomes crucial. The big question is whether Arteta can shuffle his squad effectively without compromising their performance against Brentford.
Real Madrid, who face a 400km trip to play Deportivo Alaves on Sunday, have one less day to recover—a potential advantage for Arsenal. Adding to that is a hopeful sign: footage of Kai Havertz in recovery suggests he could return sooner than expected.
On Declan Rice:
“We knew we were signing a top player—that’s why we invested in him. Now, he just needs to keep adding goals from all areas.”
On Havertz’s recovery:
“Each injury is different, but his attitude is excellent. He’s eager to return quickly, and our medical team is doing a great job. Hopefully, he’ll be available soon.”
On Ethan Nwaneri:
“Our job is to give the young players energy and purpose—to make them feel essential.”
On Riccardo Calafiori:
“Hard to say exactly when, but he’s progressing well.”
On Saka and Rice fitness:
“Both are fine. Just minor knocks—they’re available for Brentford.”
On semi-automated offsides:
“I think it brings more fairness. It works well in the Champions League.”
On Thomas Frank:
“He’s evolved Brentford’s setup smartly and at the right moments.”
Post-Real Madrid celebration:
“They only got one day off, but they definitely enjoyed it!”
On Saka’s commitment:
“He’s humble, grounded, and deeply tied to the club. His chemistry with the team adds a real spark.”
On Real Madrid mindset:
“It’s not about dreaming—it’s about believing and making it real.”
On Rice’s set-pieces:
“We’ve explored how he can create in different ways—dribbling, shooting, heading. His free-kicks are just another weapon.”
On Tuesday’s result:
“The energy was unbelievable—it was a night to remember. But now, we turn our focus to Brentford.”
Delayed Press Conference:
Arteta was running late to the briefing, despite rumors it could be delayed until 1:30pm.
Contract Updates:
Arsenal are in advanced talks to extend contracts for young talents Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Lewis-Skelly has locked down the left-back role and recently made a goalscoring England debut. Nwaneri has filled in creatively for the injured Saka, racking up eight goals and two assists this season.
Rotation Plans for Brentford:
With a chance to pull off a Champions League upset in Madrid, Arteta is expected to rest key players this weekend. Though maintaining momentum is important, protecting fitness for the return leg is the bigger priority.
Champions League Discipline Update:
Arsenal take a clean slate into the second leg—Rice, Martinelli, and Timber avoided yellow cards, ensuring their availability for the Bernabeu. Only Thomas Partey was booked in the first leg.
