Mikel Arteta addressed media representatives at San Mamés Stadium before Arsenal's Champions League group stage opener against Athletic Bilbao. The manager confirmed four players remain unavailable as Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Odegaard cannot participate due to fitness concerns. Arteta acknowledged Arsenal's historical absence from European glory while expressing determination to alter that narrative through consistent improvement and attention to decisive moments.
The Spanish coach reflected on his emotional return to the Basque region after departing Real Sociedad two decades ago as a player. Arteta praised Pep Guardiola's mentorship and encouragement during his career development at Manchester City before joining Arsenal. He expressed gratitude toward Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde following recent complimentary remarks about his coaching abilities. Arteta declined to discuss speculation surrounding Nico Williams' potential transfer to Arsenal while acknowledging the winger's exceptional talent for club and country.
The Spanish coach reflected on his emotional return to the Basque region after departing Real Sociedad two decades ago as a player. Arteta praised Pep Guardiola's mentorship and encouragement during his career development at Manchester City before joining Arsenal. He expressed gratitude toward Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde following recent complimentary remarks about his coaching abilities. Arteta declined to discuss speculation surrounding Nico Williams' potential transfer to Arsenal while acknowledging the winger's exceptional talent for club and country.
