Mikel Arteta Praises Arsenal's Squad Strength
Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal's squad depth is crucial for competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Read more about his views on the team's chances.
“When the intensity goes that high, they are not going to be able to sustain that, so you need more players. The standards have raised. We need...”
Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal has the squad depth to compete on all fronts this season. After dispatching Nottingham Forest 3-0, Arteta praised his team's impressive depth, saying it's simply the standard required to compete domestically and in the Champions League. The Gunners have recruited heavily over the summer, adding Viktor Gyokeres as their new centre-forward, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze to bolster their attack, and defender Cristhian Mosquera.
Key Signings:
Viktor Gyokeres: Centre-forward and a long-called-for signing by Arsenal fans
Noni Madueke: Attacker who excelled in Arsenal's win over Nottingham Forest
Eberechi Eze: Attacker who adds depth to Arsenal's squad
Cristhian Mosquera: Defender who ably deputized for William Saliba
Martin Zubimendi: Central midfielder who scored twice in Arsenal's 3-0 win
Arteta emphasized that squad depth is crucial, given the demanding schedule with 70-74 games per season. He praised his new signings, highlighting Zubimendi's contribution and Mosquera's ability to deputize for Saliba. Even with injuries to key players like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal's stronger squad has allowed them to maintain their form.
The match showcased Arsenal's impressive squad depth, with Noni Madueke and Rob Holding's deputies, Julian Timber and none but Carlos Augusto Mosquera stepping up in the absence of key players like Bukayo Saka and William Saliba. Madueke particularly excelled, starting and impressing in place of Saka, while Mosquera ably filled in for Saliba, demonstrating Arsenal's strength in depth.
💬 “He was unbelievable, the two goals are very difficult to score."
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 13, 2025
Mikel was full of praise for his fellow countryman, Zubimendi 👏
Key Performers:
- Noni Madueke: Excelled in Saka's absence, showcasing pace and creativity
- Carlos Augusto Mosquera: Deputized for Saliba, demonstrating defensive solidity
- Martin Zubimendi: Scored a brace, highlighting Arsenal's attacking prowess
- Viktor Gyokeres: Scored a clinical goal, showcasing his finishing ability
Arsenal's squad strength was further evident when Declan Rice remained on the bench despite captain Martin Odegaard's injury in the first half. Instead, 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri was brought on, providing a glimpse into the team's promising young talent. This depth allowed Arsenal to maintain their high level of performance, even in the face of setbacks.
Mikel Arteta emphasized that Arsenal's impressive squad depth is simply a necessity for competing at the highest level, both domestically and in the Champions League. He noted that top clubs like Liverpool have also invested heavily in their squads, highlighting the importance of having a strong and deep team to succeed in the demanding schedule of modern football.
Arteta said, however, that Arsenal's impressive depth was simply what was required of any side looking to compete domestically – especially with champions Liverpool having also splashed the cash – and in the Champions League.
“We knew that was the standard, that's the standard of the other teams in the league, in Europe... and I'm very happy because it gives us options,” he told reporters.
“They (the players) have to play 70 or 74 games throughout the season. It's never been done.
“When the intensity goes that high, they are not going to be able to sustain that, so you need more players. The standards have raised. We need better players and there's no secret.”
Martin Zubimendi's impressive performance silenced critics who questioned Arsenal's decision to sign another central midfielder. The Spain international opened his Arsenal account with a stunning volley, capitalizing on Noni Madueke's corner kick that was poorly cleared by Chris Wood. Zubimendi's 32nd-minute goal showcased his exceptional skill, as his strike took a slight deflection off Murillo before flying into the net.
Zubimendi's Impact:
Exceptional Skill: Zubimendi's volley was a thing of beauty, demonstrating his ability to score high-quality goals.
Clinical Finish: His late header, assisted by Leandro Trossard, sealed Arsenal's 3-0 victory and showcased his composure in front of goal.
Influence on the Team: Zubimendi's performance highlighted his value to the team, providing more than just depth in the central midfield position.
Mikel Arteta praised Zubimendi's contribution, emphasizing that the £60m signing has added significant quality to the team. With Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and other key players dealing with injuries, Zubimendi's impact was crucial in securing Arsenal's third win in four games. The victory propels Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table, tied on goal difference with Liverpool.
“He's given us a lot of positive things: his presence, his authority on the pitch, the way he connects with the players and that composure that he's having,“ he said.
“If he starts to add assists and goals like this, then it's another dimension of a player.”
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