Mikel Arteta of Arsenal appeals to Premier League for modification of squad regulations.
Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta has expressed his desire for the Premier League to modify its regulations to permit a larger number of players in matchday squads starting next season.
Current rules limit the squad to 18 players for each match, which is two fewer than the allowance in UEFA tournaments.
Both Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot and Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola have also advocated for increased squad sizes. Speaking on Friday prior to Arsenal’s match against Leeds United, Arteta remarked: “Currently, there are two or three players who must be excluded from the squad.
“That is the reality. I cannot alter that. These are the regulations, and I hope that next season the Premier League will increase the number of outfield players from 18 to 20.
“I implore them from here, similar to the Champions League, as it greatly aids in managing the squad, preserving player value, and maintaining players’ mental well-being, since no one wants to be left out of the squad.
“Therefore, I urge that if we can, collectively, assist us with this, we can handle accommodations, travel, and all related matters, which would be extremely beneficial for everyone, as it is the most challenging aspect when a player has to be omitted.
“Ultimately, there are positions, and players capable of playing in multiple roles, and you cannot overload certain areas while weakening others. This is typically the rationale behind such decisions, as it depends on how a player trains, their behavior, communication, and how they support the team; they should be involved in every minute of every match.”
When asked about the effect on a player’s mental health, Arteta stated: “We have a truly unique profession, as we possess the ability to change someone’s life and career, which is remarkable, but each week we must inform someone, ‘tomorrow, you will not be performing your role.
“You are not even permitted to travel with the team.’ So, name another profession where this occurs. I cannot walk into the kitchen tomorrow and tell two other chefs that they will not be cooking today; they should just observe or go home. It is incredibly challenging.
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“For someone who wishes to feel included, they need to be present, they need to travel, and they must have the sense that they have an opportunity. When that opportunity is removed, and a player is left out, they may feel inadequate.
“Ultimately, your choice is evident. I select another 20 players over you, and I believe this is something that can be avoided. Why? Because the demands of the matches are greater, so we require larger squads.
“Thus, it seems illogical to impose such restrictions, in my view. I believe we should expand this and provide the chance for everyone to be involved, allowing us to make the appropriate decisions regarding the game and manage minutes, psychological and emotional states, and how we wish to alter the game, which would benefit everyone involved.”
Arteta has also previously indicated that Premier League clubs should be permitted to register more than 25 senior players in their squads for the competition.
