A spot in the competition's last-16 is on the line when we play FC Zurich on Thursday night at Emirates Stadium. Prior to the game, Mikel Arteta held his customary pre-game news conference in London Colney.



He spoke about a variety of subjects, such as players getting back into shape, waiting patiently for opportunities, and the World Cup break.


This is everything he said:


Regarding Saka, Elneny, and Zinchenko's health:


Naturally, they are in different stages. Mo suffered a long-term injury, but he is now fully recovered and has been working out with the team for a week or so. Alex has recently through two training sessions. Bukayo was OK today after only missing one or two workouts.



Regarding whether Saka might be accessible tomorrow:


Yes.


Regarding the referees' level of protection for Saka:


It is the responsibility of the referees to handle the situation as effectively as possible after considering all the incidences and the number of fouls that our front players are receiving.


If he will bring it up with the Premier League, he will:


But not here. I have to work with them on everything I do.


Regarding Kieran Tierney and Reiss Nelson's tolerance:

I believe it tells a lot about them and how well they understand one other's contributions to the team. That varies each and every week. You're mentioning two players; in the past, one of them participated in games while the other sat on the sidelines. It doesn't imply that they don't try; on the contrary, they gave it their all when playing. But ultimately, we have to make choices, and they have all been really respectful, as we also expect from all of the players when they are on the field.

Regarding whether Gabriel Jesus needs to alter anything:

I don't believe he needs to change if he totals three assists in a game! If he did it in every game, I would be overjoyed.


Regarding the Barcelona job rumor:


I can only express my immense happiness and pride at my current situation. Barcelona is currently moving in the right direction. They have a fantastic coach, in my opinion, who has lived everywhere and is a true icon at the club. You must treat that with the utmost respect.


about Pablo Mari


Well, to start with, he's in a great spot, and we are familiar with Pablo's reactions to situations. He has been extremely upbeat about everything that has occurred, but when you talk about some recent incidents involving footballers, their wives, and families in both the UK and throughout Europe, there are certainly concerns. We need to speak up and take action, in my opinion, because this is not what we want. Everyone deserves to feel safe, and we must act to ensure that everyone does.


regarding whether he feels obligated to safeguard his players before the World Cup:


They are currently playing for Arsenal, so that is what they need to concentrate on, even if I feel a responsibility to protect, mentor, and help them achieve their full potential every day. They must then concentrate on their national team when they are playing for England or their respective national teams. What we need to accomplish is this.


if any of his players are beginning to pay more attention to the World Cup:


I don't want to take note of any of that, so no.

Regarding how Sambi Lokonga will be able to play higher up the field thanks to Elneny's return:


We had to adjust the position of Sambi because he was our most natural player to do so because Thomas [Partey] was out and then Mo was out. We have a new opening now that Mo has returned.