Mikel Arteta has emphasized that Arsenal is “fully supportive” of players representing their national teams and has defended the club’s relationships with international coaches following a series of withdrawals.
Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka were unable to participate in either of England’s friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan, while Noni Madueke was sent back due to an injury sustained in the first match.
Defenders Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba withdrew from the Brazil and France squads, respectively, despite receiving initial call-ups. Jurriën Timber was also excluded from the Netherlands squad after missing the Gunners’ Carabao Cup Final loss to Manchester City due to injury.
Belgium ruled Leandro Trossard unfit to play, even though he had participated for 82 minutes against City, while Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi played for Ecuador and Spain, respectively, but were later returned to their clubs due to fitness issues.
Arsenal is competing on three fronts and aiming for their first Premier League title in 22 years, which has led to speculation in some circles regarding the reasons behind a total of 10 players being unable to complete international duties over the past 10 days.
However, Arteta stated on Friday: “We have a very good relationship and communication with most of the national teams — certainly with [England manager] Thomas [Tuchel] as well.
“We have always been extremely supportive. When it comes to communicating the condition and status of each player, we are consistently honest. Ultimately, a medical decision had to be made. The conclusion was clear.
“When a player is fit and available to represent the national team, they should play. It makes us immensely proud to have so many players in the national team.
“Players are eager to represent their national teams. We understand how significant their time together is and what their preparation means to them. We are fully supportive of that, and we do what we can.”
When asked how many players might return for Saturday’s FA Cup quarterfinal against Southampton, Arteta replied: “I continue the speculation that you can do it and assess it afterward. ‘Was what I said correct, or do I need to change, remove, and rewrite something else?’
“We are currently in a position where we need to field the strongest lineup possible to win every competition. We are just two or three matches away from the FA Cup, and we recognize how crucial that competition is for us.”
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Arteta did confirm that Madueke’s leg injury is not as severe as initially feared — indicating he may only be sidelined for a few days — while Timber and captain Martin Odegaard could be available this weekend.
