Arsenal Daily News Roundup
Neymar names Mesut Ozil among Germany’s best, recalling Arteta’s 2020/21 decision to omit Ozil from Arsenal’s squads before his 2023 retirement. Neymar had previously praised Gabriel Jesus too.
Paul Parker says Eberechi Eze has lost ‘freedom’ under Arteta after bright start, with minutes reduced since Odegaard’s return and role not suiting his strengths.
Kai Havertz returns with 22 minutes in Arsenal’s 4-1 FA Cup win at Portsmouth. Mikel Merino says his comeback lifts training and gives Arteta ‘one more asset’ amid Gyokeres’ dip.
Claude Makelele names Declan Rice among the Premier League’s top three midfielders with Rodri and Caicedo, praising Rice’s top-level form for Arsenal.
With Arsenal chasing four trophies, Arteta must balance rotation and priorities before the Chelsea League Cup semi while maintaining the Premier League title push.
Report claims Arsenal are eyeing Brentford’s Igor Thiago, valued around £30m, after Gyokeres’ struggles. Marcus Thuram and Samu Aghehowa also monitored as striker options.
Arsenal target Marc Guehi is wanted by Bayern Munich, who have spoken to his agents about a summer move. Liverpool and Man City also keen, putting pressure on any Arsenal bid.
Arsenal avoided moves for Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko. Man United fans criticise Cunha’s displays, while Arteta reportedly had discipline concerns over the forward.
On loan at Brentford, Reiss Nelson made his first start since October, playing 70 minutes in a 2-0 FA Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday as he pushes for more minutes.
Report in Spain links Real Madrid with Gabriel Martinelli as a £86m option if Vinicius leaves. Unclear if Arsenal would entertain a sale.
Per Mertesacker will leave as academy manager at season’s end. His ‘Strong Young Gunners’ model helped produce Saka, Smith Rowe, Nwaneri and more. Arsenal must find a successor to sustain Hale End gains.
Arsenal host League One Wigan in the FA Cup fourth round in mid-February. Last met in 2014 semi-final, Gunners won on penalties. Arteta scored in that shootout. Arsenal have one home loss to Wigan since 2005.
Inter confirm Hakan Calhanoglu has a left calf strain and is out around 20 days, set to miss games including their Champions League tie against Arsenal, plus Borussia Dortmund.
Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior praises Arsenal’s all-round strength before the League Cup semi-final first leg, saying they are ‘good at everything’ and strong on set plays with Gabriel fit.
Arteta hails Slot’s post-match defence of Gabriel Martinelli after the winger pushed injured Conor Bradley. Martinelli apologised, Bradley had surgery, and Arteta lauds Slot’s ‘brilliant’ handling.
Arsenal have enquired about Corinthians midfielder Breno Bidon with club and agents, but no offer. Corinthians prefer to sell at year end unless an exceptional bid arrives.
Everton show interest in Ben White, but Football.London say Arteta views him as vital and Arsenal have no intention to sell. His versatility keeps him in cup and European plans.
