Mikel Arteta press conference ahead of Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Matchday 4 encounter with Slavia Praha, revealing Arsenal injury crisis and expressing frustration at the congested fixture schedule.
Arsenal manager confirmed Viktor Gyokeres is ruled out with a muscular injury and will undergo scans to determine the extent. With seven players already out, Arteta questioned the logic of scheduling a Carabao Cup quarter-final just two days after a Premier League match, urging the authorities to “respect the players” and apply fairness across the premier league.
Despite the setbacks, Arteta praised his team’s defensive discipline, pointing to the club’s streak of Champions League clean sheets and the collective mentality driving their performances.
He also credited Gabriel Jantze for his leadership and impact on the backline, while highlighting the professionalism of players like Christian Norgaard, who may start in midfield due to injuries and suspensions.
The Spaniard addressed Declan Rice’s yellow card risk, the absence of Zubimendi, and how difficult decisions must be made during key fixtures especially with Bayern Munich match in the next group stage game.
