The Gunners go into their Premier League opener against Coventry City as holders of the English top-flight crown for the first time since the early 1930s. After securing the Community Shield, manager Mikel Arteta is set to address the media regarding squad updates and transfer developments ahead of Friday evening’s contest.
Coventry’s promotion means Arsenal face a newly-elevated opponent in their season opener for the first occasion since 2021, when they suffered defeat against Thomas Frank’s Brentford side. However, the club finds itself in markedly improved circumstances half a decade on.
The North Londoners have also reached an agreement for Ezri Konsa, and with the transfer reportedly well advanced, Arteta may offer some commentary on the defender’s potential arrival despite his usual reluctance to discuss unconfirmed signings.
Arsenal secured the Community Shield(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
The manager stated that transfer discussions do not pass through him, his staff, or his family. Those conversations happen with technical director Andrea Berta and the board to gauge the club’s position. Regarding the squad, he described one player as having special qualities with a unique energy and aura that sets him apart, while another was described as extraordinary. He indicated the situation is developing positively but requires further observation. When asked about squad readiness, he confirmed the players are prepared for the campaign ahead.
On Timber’s training participation
The defender has not yet joined full training sessions, with the manager indicating this would occur within the coming weeks.
The squad shares a deep passion and love for football that provides personal fulfilment, purpose, and brings considerable joy and happiness. He expressed genuine enjoyment in the role. He confirmed taking time to appreciate and reflect on recent achievements, sensing genuine enthusiasm throughout the club. Each fixture presents unique challenges, and he expressed admiration for how Coventry have performed under their manager, acknowledging they have earned their Premier League status through their footballing approach.
The club must approach this period thoughtfully and progressively, demonstrating hunger and ambition to prove continued improvement. This drive is evident throughout the organisation. He acknowledged the current period as demanding, requiring honesty and transparency when delivering difficult messages, even when the recipient may not welcome what they hear. Such conversations are never easy, particularly when a player feels uncertain about their place. The club maintains active transfer market involvement with clear intent to strengthen the squad. A specific requirement exists in the defensive line given Jurriën Timber’s extended absence, and an announcement will follow once all details are finalised. Regarding potential arrivals, he maintained an optimistic outlook while acknowledging factors beyond the club’s control. Competing clubs possess exceptional quality and sustain high standards consistently, though he expressed full confidence in his players’ determination and ability.
More than 100,000 ballot participants secured tickets during last season’s championship-winning campaign, representing growth exceeding ten percent from the previous year. Arsenal have continued their efforts against ticket touting, expanding access for genuine supporters.
The club transitioned to a ballot system to combat touting’s effects. While over 270,000 tickets reached fans through this method last season, some regular attendees have encountered difficulties obtaining seats as readily as before.
Arsenal have continued to give more fans the chance to attend(Image: Marc Atkins)
The player expressed feeling positive about the upcoming season, describing himself as different and hopefully improved, with increased excitement and hunger compared to previous years. He eagerly anticipates beginning the campaign in front of the home support.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has confirmed his readiness for the new season after breaking his silence following reports that Chelsea and Manchester United had been contacted regarding their interest in the young player. He set up Riccardo Calafiori with an assist inside the opening half-minute before lifting the trophy and sharing an emotional celebration with fans who chanted his name to demonstrate their desire for him to remain at the club.
Arsenal’s summer transfer activity has fallen short in terms of player sales, with less than £40million generated from departures including Jakub Kiwior, Leandro Trossard, and Christian Norgaard moving on for modest fees.
The player’s stance remains unambiguous – he wishes to continue at the club. Sources indicate he has no intention of pursuing a departure and is concentrating entirely on his football.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has attracted transfer interest(Image: Huw Fairclough)
Throughout any transfer window, supporters experience heightened anticipation and urgency, obsessively checking social media for potential signings. For Arsenal, this window has not met expectations. Only two outfield players have been added to the championship-winning squad, and the left flank position that appeared most in need of reinforcement has yet to be addressed.
Christos Tzolis, who has shown promising form, could potentially fill that role, though his recruitment was always part of the contingency plan following Trossard’s exit and separate from interest in other wide attacking options. Arsenal have previously monitored Rodrygo, who could recover from injury during winter, though any potential move remains speculative.
Hello and welcome to coverage of Mikel Arteta’s pre-match press conference.
Our Arsenal correspondent Tom Canton is present to provide live updates. Comments to follow…