Arteta explains why he will keep rivals guessing on the fitness of his players | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta’s approach to keeping injury updates under wraps has become a strategic element of his management style, deliberately introducing ambiguity around the availability of key players. In recent instances, such as the lead-up to Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool, Arteta withheld information on whether crucial players like Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber would feature. Both did ultimately start the match, with Saka completing the game unscathed, though Timber unfortunately sustained an injury. This approach has stirred curiosity among fans and journalists alike, prompting direct questions to Arteta about his decision to remain tight-lipped on player fitness.

Arteta has openly acknowledged that his tactic is intentional. As reported by the Daily Mail, he explained, “I don’t want to make it easy for anyone. The opponent has to work and think and prepare and make sure they do their homework like I have to.” This statement underscores his belief that leaving opponents uncertain about Arsenal’s lineup can create an element of surprise, potentially disrupting their game plan. He went on to express a desire for reciprocal uncertainty, mentioning that he, too, would like to know the opponent’s lineup in advance to better prepare, but that remains part of the game’s unpredictability.

The rationale for this secrecy also lies in the inherent uncertainties surrounding injury recovery timelines. Arteta noted, “I need to be very careful because sometimes I can tell you a player is going to be a few weeks but is a few months. Sometimes I don’t know if a player is going to be fit in two days’ time or when the press conference is.” By refraining from setting fixed expectations, he mitigates the risk of disappointment or pressure if recovery times fluctuate unexpectedly.

Ultimately, Arteta’s approach aligns with his competitive philosophy, where keeping opponents in the dark about his squad selection is seen as an advantage. By embracing this unpredictability, Arteta aims to make Arsenal a more challenging team to prepare for, adding an extra layer of difficulty for any opposition seeking an edge.

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