Mikel Arteta's key comments from his Arsenal press conference ahead of the match against Brentford covered injuries, the importance of the game and the challenge posed by the opponent
15:15, 02 Dec 2025
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta attends a press conference
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta attends a press conference(Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Player fitness and injuries
William Saliba: Ruled out for the time being with a "niggle" and his return is considered a "matter of days."
Leandro Trossard: His absence is also expected to be a "matter of days."
Kai Havertz: Expected to be out for a "matter of weeks" due to a setback he had suffered, though he is now "doing stuff on the pitch." Arteta expressed his desire to have him back soon.
Gabriel Magalhaes: Also expected to be out for "weeks."
Returning Players: Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus had recently returned to the squad (for the match against Chelsea).
Declan Rice: Arteta praised Rice, who won the FSA Men's Player of the Year Award, saying he is "taking us to a different level" and "fully deserves it."
On the game and motivation
Arteta described the match against Brentford as "vital. Massive."
He motivated the fans by saying the opportunity is for everybody to be at the Emirates at 7:30 PM, "bouncing and putting energy to win the game... Like animals, everybody at the Emirates to go again and beat Brentford."
He stated the team's motivation comes from their preparation, their position in the league, and what they are currently achieving.
He confirmed that rotation would be managed based on each individual's well-being and the context of the matches, with the sole purpose of having the best options on the pitch.
On the opponent (Brentford)
Arteta highlighted the physicality and the "different threats, different challenges" that Brentford brings, specifically mentioning the challenge of their long throw.
He stressed that Arsenal needs to "dominate that" physicality to win the game".
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READ THE FULL STORY: Every word Mikel Arteta said on Arsenal vs Brentford, Saliba, Havertz setback and Chelsea fallout
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