Konsa could make his Arsenal debut against former club Aston Villa.
Mikel Arteta is hopeful Ezri Konsa will not receive a hostile reception at Aston Villa on the eve of the England defender’s debut against his former club.
Konsa is set to be handed his first Arsenal appearance following his £55million transfer when Arteta’s men head to Villa Park on Monday night. Konsa spent seven seasons at Villa and played an integral role in the club landing the Europa League and finishing in the top four.
But the 28-year-old – among a plethora of players who have left Villa in the summer – could be targeted by the home supporters.
However, when asked if Konsa should receive a warm welcome from the Villa fans, Arteta replied: “I hope so.
“I’m sure that Ezri will think the same way for what he’s done for the club. But, obviously, this is not down to us.
Konsa made 286 appearances in seven seasons at Aston Villa.placeholder image
Konsa made 286 appearances in seven seasons at Aston Villa. | Getty Images
“And the way I’ve seen Ezri since day one, knowing his personality really well, and through people that have worked with him, I have no concern about him playing there. He has trained really well, and he will be available for selection.”
Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for the league title last season and started their defence with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Coventry, a week after they saw off Manchester City to take the Community Shield.
But the Gunners are still keen to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes on Tuesday, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez still on their radar – although club insiders suggest a deal to sign the Argentina international remains low.
Arteta continued: “It’s a natural reaction (to look for new signings) because we always want more. But we already have a lot of great players here in the building.
“We’re always looking to strengthen and be better and have qualities that we don’t have in the squad. But the main aim is to focus on the ones that we have.
“Today, I’m satisfied (with his squad). I hope that when the transfer window closes, I am even more satisfied because I will be even more convinced the team has put in a great performance against Villa and won the game, and we are in the best possible scenario.
“It’s the best squad that we have, or we believe that we could have right now, and that’s it. That’s not the best squad that we’re going to have in a month’s time because hopefully the players will improve, the team will improve and we’ll be better.”