Mikel Arteta Previews Arsenal’s Clash Against West Ham Amid Injury Challenges

LONDON, England — Just over 24 hours before Arsenal‘s crucial Premier League match against West Ham United, manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media at the Sobha Realty Training Centre on February 21, 2025. Arteta discussed team injuries, the Hammers’ new boss Graham Potter, and the upcoming Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven.

Regarding team news, Arteta confirmed, “No real news to be fair. The ones that are long-term remain not available, and the rest, no news.” He added that Ben White is available for selection but didn’t reveal if he would start against West Ham.

When asked about the Champions League draw against PSV, Arteta acknowledged their prowess, stating, “We’ve played against them, they’re a really good team, we know that … every team is really good at this stage, and when the time comes, we’ll be ready for it.”

Arteta also emphasized the significance of the imminent match against West Ham, noting, “We have to do our job and it’s going to be a tough one tomorrow against West Ham.” If victorious, Arsenal could close the gap to Liverpool to just five points.

On the pressure of viewing other top teams, Arteta mentioned, “I’m glued to tomorrow’s game. That’s what I’m glued to, and my full focus is just there.” He remarked on the unique challenges faced during title races, saying, “The margins are so small and everything counts.”

Arteta reflected on the potential of younger players stepping up due to injuries in the squad. “We have some other players training with us now … they look ready as well, which is a good thing.”

When discussing his tactical approach to the game and the idea of complacency, he stated, “I don’t think anybody is thinking that way because we are very experienced in the Premier League.”

The coach expressed his commitment to helping injured players like Takehiro Tomiyasu, who underwent knee surgery and is out for the season. “It’s a very lonely process, and hopefully, he knows we are all here trying to help him,” Arteta said.

Raheem Sterling, who has struggled with form this season, was a focal point of Arteta’s remarks as well. “He’s fully focused, he trained really good again this week and he’s ready to go again,” Arteta stated, emphasizing the necessity of a high-performance level from the veteran forward.

As Arsenal prepares to face a West Ham side seeking to escape a recent slump, Arteta remains upbeat about his team’s chances and their capability to sustain pressure in the title race. He said, “Let’s make sure that what is in our hands, we do it,” signaling his focus on Arsenal’s game against West Ham rather than worrying about Liverpool’s performance against Manchester City.

With a string of demanding matches ahead, Arteta’s leadership and tactical decisions will be critical as Arsenal aims to reclaim its position in the Premier League standings.