Jose Mourinho proven right about Nicolas Pepe 12 months on from Arsenal transfer

The Ivory Coast international joined Arsenal back in the summer of 2019 for a big-money fee.

When Arsenal made the decision to splash out a club-record fee of £72million to sign winger Nicolas Pepe last summer from French outfit Lille, it is safe to say that heads were turned and eyebrows were raised.

After narrowly missing out on the top-four at the end of the 2018/19 season, as well as being beaten by Chelsea in the final of the Europa League, it appeared as though the Gunners were in need of one further piece of magic to take them to the next level.

To try and do just that, the Arsenal hierarchy made the decision to sign Pepe from Lille for a fee just north of £70million.

It was a statement of intent by the Emirates Stadium club and one that certainly lead to fans of other Premier League clubs sitting up and taking note of what the Gunners had just done.

PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG IN PROFILE

Pepe arrived at Arsenal off the back of a fantastic 2018/19 campaign in Ligue 1, as he had scored 22 goals in 38 Ligue 1 appearances, as well as registering 12 assists in all competitions.

It was the kind of form that was met with a wave of expectation.

He was expected to hit the ground running, deliver the goods and strike an instant partnership with Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in a front-three that was predicted to scare the living daylights out of opposition defenders.

Any such hopes the Arsenal fans and former boss Unai Emery had of that happening were quickly distinguished, as Pepe struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League.

Nicolas Pepe (left), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (centre) and Alexandre Lacazette pose with the FA Cup after last weekend's win at Wembley. (Image: (Catherine Ivill/NMC Pool/PA Wire))

In his first 12 Premier League outings, the Ivory Coast international scored just one goal and registered two assists.

It was a far cry from the form that had been expected from the club's record-signing.

However, though goals and assists have not arrived in bucket loads, Pepe has improved significantly since football returned in June. He has been far more lively, involved and shown a willingness to make things happen.

For example, he played the pass to Aubameyang in last Saturday's FA Cup final win over Chelsea that sealed the Gunners their first trophy of the Mikel Arteta era. That has to count for something.

With Pepe having now been on the Gunners' books for just over a year, it is safe to say that the 25-year-old has now started to find his feet and cope with the demands that English football requires.

And his recent form has proven that Tottenham Hotspur chief Jose Mourinho was right about him all along, with the Spurs boss having highlighted the importance of patience being key following his arrival at the Emirates Stadium last summer.

Prior to landing the Spurs job back in November, Mourinho worked as a pundit for Sky Sports' Premier League coverage and he made a bold prediction about Pepe, insisting that time would be key to him fulfilling his potential in an Arsenal shirt.

“I know Pepe very well," said Mourinho. "There’s a question mark over the time for his adaption but he’s obviously a kid with a lot of talent.

"This is potentially a very good signing for Arsenal."

Whilst there is, of course, still plenty more for Pepe to do to justify his £72m price tag, he is heading in the right direction, proving that he can be key for Arteta moving forward.

In total, Pepe racked up 42 appearances for Arsenal during the 2019/20 campaign, scoring eight times and claiming 10 assists.

Arsenal to sack 55 workers as COVID-19 hits revenues

Less than a week after winning the FA Cup to secure their place in next season’s Europa League, Arsenal has announced plans to layoff 55 staff.

This is also coming as the football club negotiated a multi-million-pound contract extension with striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The club said on Wednesday, that the cuts were the result of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The announcement sparked an immediate social media backlash from fans contrasting the huge sums involved with keeping key players to the lost jobs of staff at the north London outfit.

“Revenue from broadcasters, matchday and commercial activities have all been hit severely and these impacts will continue into at least the forthcoming 2020/21 season.” the club said in a statement.

The club said they had done all they could to reduce costs, including players, senior staff and executive team members taking voluntary pay cuts adding “but it is now clear that we must reduce our costs further to ensure we are operating in a sustainable and responsible way.”

Arsenal is also bidding to lure Chelsea forward Willian to the club, also on a huge weekly wage, while local media reports this week say they are offering striker Aubameyang a 300,000 pounds-a-week deal to extend his contract.

The wealth of the club’s multi-billionaire American owner Stan Kroenke had risen by around 300 million pounds this year, according to a report written and compiled by the United States-based Institute for Policy Studies, another fact not lost on fans voicing their frustration.

An update from Arsenal

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have been working hard to ensure that Arsenal Football Club emerges in a robust and strong position for the future.

In line with other football clubs and many other businesses operating in the sport, leisure and entertainment arena, we have been impacted directly by COVID-19.

Our main sources of income have all reduced significantly. Revenue from broadcasters, matchday and commercial activities have all been hit severely and these impacts will continue into at least the forthcoming 2020/21 season.

The pandemic represents one of the most challenging periods in our 134-year history and we have responded promptly by implementing wide-ranging measures to reduce our costs. Our players, senior football staff and executive team have volunteered pay cuts, we have stopped pretty much all of our capital spending, and our discretionary operating expenditure has been strictly controlled.

We have also received significant financial support from our owners, Kroenke, Sports & Entertainment in terms of refinancing our stadium debt.

These steps have all reduced the impact of the pandemic on the club and have helped us continue to maintain investment in the team. This will continue to be a key priority.

It is now clear that we will be facing more significant and longer-lasting reductions in our revenue than we all hoped. Current indications are that we will not have fans back at Emirates Stadium for the start of next season and fans will only be able to return in limited numbers after that. The global economic projections are also very negative. 

This will impact the disposable income of our fans, the money corporate clients have to spend on hospitality and sponsorship, and the ability for broadcasters to invest in TV rights.

We all hope there will be no “second wave” but we also need to accept that is one of the many uncertainties ahead of us and plan accordingly. 

Over recent years we have consistently invested in additional staff to take the club forward but with the expected reduction of income in mind, it is now clear that we must reduce our costs further to ensure we are operating in a sustainable and responsible way, and to enable us to continue to invest in the team.

Our aim has been to protect the jobs and base salaries of our people for as long as we possibly can. Unfortunately, we have now come to the point where we are proposing 55 redundancies.

We do not make these proposals lightly and have looked at every aspect of the club and our expenditure before reaching this point. We are now entering the required 30-day consultation period on these proposals.  

We know this is upsetting and difficult for our dedicated staff and our focus is on managing this as sensitively as possible.

These proposed changes are ultimately about ensuring we take this great football club forward, creating the right organisation for a post-Covid world, and ensuring we have the resources to return to competing effectively at the top of the game here and in Europe.

Source: Arsenal.com

Lacks class' - Tottenham and Everton fans can't believe what Mikel Arteta did in FA Cup final

The Arsenal boss was seen gesturing during the first half at Wembley

The FA Cup final has been an entertaining affair in the first half.

The big London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea has not disappointed so far, despite Wembley Stadium being empty because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Christian Pulisic lit up the national stadium finishing off a stunning move to give Chelsea the lead.

But Arsenal grew into the match as the half wore on and they deservedly levelled from the penalty spot after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was hauled down on his way into the box by Cesar Azpilicueta.

And in that moment for the penalty, Arsenal boss MIkel Arteta did something that annoyed a number of football supporters.

Azpilicueta was booked for the challenge, with Antonio Rudiger the covering defender, although with no real attempt made to win the ball there is an argument that Azpilicueta could have been sent off.

It is something that really grates with supporters when players call for other players to be sent off, and Arteta gesutring on the sidelines was not missed by fans on Twitter.

Among a great number of people responding to the pictures, many were Tottenham - natural for rivals of Arsenal - and Everton for whom Arteta actually played in his career.

Arteta did redeem himself later on when Azpilicueta went off injured, patting him as he went past to make sure he was okay.

Arsenal reap rewards of Mikel Arteta's special project to unleash real Nicolas Pepe

Mikel Arteta has succeeded in his plans to make Nicolas Pepe the Gunners' ultimate threat

Exactly a year on August 1 2020, Pepe produced his best performance in red and white to bring the FA Cup home for a record 14th time in the club's history and prove just why the Gunners were so keen to announce that " #PepeIsHere " 365 days prior.

The afternoon got off to a sticky start with Christian Pulisic putting Chelsea ahead in the fifth minute of the game. Rallying a few more Blues attacks, it wasn't long before Arsenal grew into the game and while Kieran Tierney, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were key to this, Pepe was even more influential in ensuring the side were a force going forward.

Over the course of his debut season, the 25-year-old has been accused of being too predictable. At Wembley, he was anything but predictable and massive credit has to go to Mikel Arteta for this, as well as Pepe himself.

"It's clear that his consistency has not been at the level he can produce. He's the first to accept that. That's what I'm going to demand of a player of his level and calibre," the head coach said about him on June 19.

"He knows that. He's such a nice kid. He's trying really hard. You have to accept as well, the timing and the way he has adapted for the first year.

"It's taking the flash moments into a consistent mode. That, for a creative wide player to do it, is a big task.

"Every detail has to be taken into account because it makes a huge difference. His mentality as well, his mindset has to all the time be like that; to win the game for the team. He's one of the players in the squad that can do it and must take the responsibility."

The shift in demand put on Pepe to try and make his game less predictable post-lockdown were clear instantly. Too often before the restart would he cut onto his left foot and to the detriment of the team, which was evident in the shock Europa League defeat to Olympiacos.

Arsenal reap rewards of Mikel Arteta's special project to unleash real Nicolas Pepe

Mikel Arteta has succeeded in his plans to make Nicolas Pepe the Gunners' ultimate threat

Nicolas Pepe was exceptional in Arsenal's 2-1 FA Cup final win over Chelsea. (Image: Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

It was the afternoon of August 1 2019 when Arsenal smashed their record transfer fee to bring Nicolas Pepe to north London for £72million.

Exactly a year on August 1 2020, Pepe produced his best performance in red and white to bring the FA Cup home for a record 14th time in the club's history and prove just why the Gunners were so keen to announce that " #PepeIsHere " 365 days prior.

The afternoon got off to a sticky start with Christian Pulisic putting Chelsea ahead in the fifth minute of the game. Rallying a few more Blues attacks, it wasn't long before Arsenal grew into the game and while Kieran Tierney, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were key to this, Pepe was even more influential in ensuring the side were a force going forward.

Over the course of his debut season, the 25-year-old has been accused of being too predictable. At Wembley, he was anything but predictable and massive credit has to go to Mikel Arteta for this, as well as Pepe himself.

Mikel Arteta loves Arsenal's team spirit

"It's clear that his consistency has not been at the level he can produce. He's the first to accept that. That's what I'm going to demand of a player of his level and calibre," the head coach said about him on June 19.

"He knows that. He's such a nice kid. He's trying really hard. You have to accept as well, the timing and the way he has adapted for the first year.

"Every detail has to be taken into account because it makes a huge difference. His mentality as well, his mindset has to all the time be like that; to win the game for the team. He's one of the players in the squad that can do it and must take the responsibility."

The shift in demand put on Pepe to try and make his game less predictable post-lockdown were clear instantly. Too often before the restart would he cut onto his left foot and to the detriment of the team, which was evident in the shock Europa League defeat to Olympiacos.

How Arteta and Lampard reacted to the 2020 FA Cup final

In his first start back against Brighton, however, he four of his five dribbles were round the outside of the defence. He finally cut onto his left on the fifth dribble and the work done previously had bought him time and space to bend the ball into the far corner - as analysed in more detail here.

Since the restart, the area Pepe has taken longest to develop is what to do when crowded out of his natural position. Against Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, dropping deep resulted in him either being hacked down or losing influence further up field. That was not the case against Chelsea.

Frank Lampard's side began the first half pressing Arsenal extremely high up the pitch, a method which saw them successfully turnover possession and hurt the Gunners

Bellerin quickly moves the ball infield to Pepe who is being closely marked by Antonio Rudiger, one of Chelsea's three centre-backs. With some luck after a miss-kick, the Ivorian retreats into his own box, taking Rudiger with him before passing to David Luiz when Olivier Giroud joins the press.

Pulisic, Kovacic and Alonso had resigned to retreat, with Alonso trying to rejoin the defensive line which is now misshapen because of Rudiger chasing Pepe.

After moving the ball on, Pepe doesn't immediately go back to the right wing. Instead, he follows the ball. Staying low-key, his presence in the highlighted space goes unnoticed by Kovacic and Jorginho while Rudiger's attention switches to rejoining his defence.

While this happens, the ball is played up the left and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang picks him out in midfield and he is now the man driving Arsenal up the pitch from a completely unexpected point of attack

In the early stages of the game, Arsenal used Maitland-Niles to exploit the space between Reece James [right wing-back] and Cesar Azpilicueta [right-sided centre-back]. Now is Pepe's turn to take advantage, as he slides the ball through to the 22-year-old he is able to burst into the final third as a result.

Compared to the early weeks of the restart, the big improvement here was Pepe staying alive to different possibilities. Especially against Southampton and Spurs, when receiving the ball drop deep with his back to goal, he didn't trust himself nearly as much. He'd either try to turn the defender and have a whole midfield to play through or set the ball back.

Going with the flow on this occasion made him less predictable as keeping the ball, shifting the point of attack and shadowing it allowed him to pick up pockets of space he wouldn't usually enter, therefore giving him time and space to hurt teams even more.

Although these spaces were different to those attacked against Brighton, the impact was somewhat similar. When he finally decided to cut onto his left foot to whip crosses to the back post, there was more time to cause chaos with his deliveries.

In fact, when Arsenal finally got to grips with the game, it was Pepe they looked to turn the screw, whipping three crosses to the same area 2 minutes and 31 seconds

The first meets Aubameyang who nods across goal for Alexandre Lacazette.

The second is aimed towards Aubameyang and Maitland-Niles and causes Willy Caballero to rush out of his goal, completely missing the ball while a defender touches it away for a corner.

This is aimed towards Holding and Aubameyang [out of shot] and once again causes problems among the Chelsea defence.

Although these developments in Pepe's game have been crucial in freeing him up more and making him a more threatening player for Arsenal, there's one thing that has always been there, and was present again at Wembley - his trickery.

Blending these more refined aspects of the game with the ability to embarrass Rudiger with two outrageous backheeled nutmegs took his performance to another level. The silkiness of his dribbling on the edge of the box before nutmegging Andreas Christensen to win a free kick was also indicative of the truly special moments that Arsenal shelled out all that money for last summer

Had his goal ridiculously well-taken goal - which proved the importance of Maitland-Niles positioning yet again - stood, it would have capped off a perfect performance but an assist for the winner will serve just as well.

Like with Kieran Tierney, Dani Ceballos, Luiz and Arteta it's been a tough first season for Pepe. Having to adapt to a new league under three different head coaches while being without a proper supporting right-back for most of the year, he has figuratively fought a battle with an arm tied behind his back.

365 days after signing, however, he gave his best example yet for why Premier League defences should fear him next season.

The most important transfer Arsenal will make for Mikel Arteta and it's not Thomas Partey

Mikel Arteta will be keen to bolster his midfield options during the summer transfer window

A 2-1 victory in the FA Cup final ended a rather eventful domestic campaign for Arsenal.

After two head coaches and unforeseen levels of disruption due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Gunners finished with another FA Cup trophy and a feeling that things are heading in the right direction under Mikel Arteta.

However, attention will quickly turn to the transfer market with Arsenal needing to address a number of areas across the pitch.

An early piece of good news ahead of an action-packed transfer window was Dani Ceballos outlining that he would like to stay at the club for the 2020/21 campaign.

A decision is yet to be made by his parent club Real Madrid but the 23-year-old appears to be happy in north London.

He told El Pais: "If I had to choose Arsenal again, I would.

"When I have had continuity, like now at Arsenal, I have been enjoying and developing good football. My hope is to continue at this level: right now I feel like the leader of this important team, a player with stripes.

"Surrounded by people who believe in you, it is easier to believe in people. When you play like this and you also have the confidence of the coach everything is easier."

Ceballos’ willingness to stay at Arsenal this summer points towards a promising future for the club, but one that will undoubtedly demand several pieces of good transfer business.

In the case of Ceballos, as well as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the club’s top priority should be trying to keep this group of players together before thinking about potential new arrivals.

The Spanish midfielder has been excellent in the second half of the campaign and his man-of-the-match performance against Chelsea on Saturday showed why the Gunners should do everything they can to keep him for at least one more season.

Continued links to Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey suggest Arsenal may be looking to bolster the long-term midfield options in the transfer market, but there are a number of reasons to suggest that Ceballos should be the number one target.

Since Arteta arrived at the Emirates back in December, the majority of his work with the current squad has been about getting the very best from each player in different tactical systems.

The Arsenal head coach has favoured a more possession-based style of play than Unai Emery but a clear shift in the balance of the team has been an important factor.

Ceballos has arguably been the most crucial element of adding a balance between defence and attack since Arteta’s arrival.

The 23-year-old’s ability to retain possession in key areas and progress into the final third has helped the likes of Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette receive more opportunities in front of goal.

In addition, his impressive performance against Chelsea on Saturday highly contrasted the lack of defensive structure and penetration in the Blues’ midfield which proved to be a decisive factor in the match – and one that has traditionally gone against Arsenal’s midfield.

Those factors are worth bearing in mind when the Gunners’ hierarchy discuss transfer plans this summer.

Ceballos is a player who has already proven to be a success under Arteta and his increasing importance towards the end of the 2019/20 campaign highlights why he should be a top priority.

Partey, of course, remains an attractive proposition if signing him is financially viable.

But the domestic campaign being just six weeks away suggests that trusting in tried and trusted players would be a big sign of the club’s belief in Arteta to take Arsenal forward.

Mikel Arteta confirms he has already laid out his Arsenal transfer plans to Raul Sanllehi(SEE HIS PLANS)

After beating Chelsea in the FA Cup Final Arsenal now set out on the rebuild Arteta is planning

Once more Arsenal entered the final day of their season knowing that their future plans were dependent on the outcome of one match. This time, 14 months on from the gut-punch of Baku, they got what they needed.

Beating Chelsea at Wembley is above all else a sporting triumph for Arsenal, winners of 10% of FA Cups in the competitions' 139-year history. It is further vindication for Mikel Arteta and those who appointed him, among whom in Raul Sanllehi was one figure who had championed his arrival after Arsene Wenger's exit in 2018 and offers propulsion for a new season that will begin in less than four weeks at Wembley with the Community Shield.

Arteta would be the first to insist that Arsenal should expect far more than Europa League football but it is hard to overstate its importance for the 2020/21 season and beyond. Financially it means at least £30million in payments from UEFA and matchday revenue that comes with reaching the group stage.

If Arteta's side were to repeat their run to the final in Baku in 2018/19 then they could hope to earn £35million solely from UEFA before any other income is considered. It is not Champions League money but in the current climate, it is of vital importance to the Gunners.

Some of the continental bounties will be redirected to players, whose 12.5% pay cut for the 12 months from April will now be reduced to 7.5%. Some will go to the transfer fund, allowing Arteta, head of football Raul Sanllehi and technical director to do more in the market than might have otherwise been possible.

Arteta has long been planning for multiple scenarios depending on what form of European football Arsenal find themselves playing in. His vision has, he confirmed in the afterglow of the Wembley triumph, already been presented to those who will be tasked with executing it.

"They know everything, I present everything to them: my vision, what my plans are, why I want to do it," he said. "Then all together we will try our best to be in the best possible position when we start the new season."

Cup glory

Chief among his demands are a dynamic presence in central midfield - Thomas Partey of Atletico Madrid remains their preferred choice - and an injection of further quality in defence with Malang Sarr on their radar. The latter will require players to be offloaded in spite of the greater funds Arsenal now have to work with.

Arteta is also understood to want an injection of greater creativity into his frontline. Arsenal is also optimistic that they will be able to secure the services of Dani Ceballos, excellent once more at Wembley, and, with the player keen to spend more time in north London, it will now be down to the Gunners and Real Madrid to agree on the specifics of a deal where the latter is believed to favour a permanent sale.

How much of this rebuild would have been possible without European football is, Arsenal are relieved to acknowledge, now unknowable. As if beating London rivals at Wembley was not pressure enough the financial ramifications of defeat weighed heavily on the club.

Arteta did all he could to ensure that it was not transmitted to his squad. "I didn’t want to add too much pressure to the players," he said.

"I know how important it was, it was very important because we need to be in Europe. It’s a must for our club as well financially because it’s a big step forward to allow us to do more things in the future and have a better structure financially at the club as well.

"I’m very pleased for both the team winning the trophy and having the option to play in Europe."

Arteta at least has the cornerstone of his rebuild in place and has confirmed that he plans to build his team around Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose two goals brought Arsenal victory after slipping to an early deficit when Christian Pulisic struck. There remains the matter of his contract, in its final 10 months, to sort, though the Arsenal boss hopes the next seven days could bring progress.

Saturday was hardly the first occasion this season in which Aubameyang's goals have dug Arsenal out of a hole whilst the club captain also netted both goals in the semi-final win over Manchester City among his 29 in 44 appearances across all competitions.

That he has done so much despite being pushed into a wide left role by Arteta only serves to burgeon his standing among the many great strikers to have played for Arsenal.

"We always had incredible strikers in this football club, Auba deserves to be compared with the big names," the Arsenal boss said. "By winning trophies he will be closer to that, the longer he stays there as well. Hopefully, we can have him for more years.

"The biggest problem probably was to convince him as well to work the way he is working because he was going to get more rewarded, more respected and then that will go from respect to admiration.

"Admiration from his team-mates, the people who work with him and the fans. Now with the way he’s conducting himself on and off the pitch, he’s got that."

Source: Football.london

Confirmed: Arsenal and Barca Reach Guendouzi/Coutinho Swap Agreement.

FC Barcelona are offering Philippe Coutinho in a swap deal for Matteo Guendouzi, with both club hierarchies seemingly keen on the idea.

French outlet Foot Mercato claim Barcelona are discussing a swap deal with Arsenal between Philippe Coutinho and Matteo Guendouzi. The two clubs are talking about the deal ‘in a concrete way’, according to the report.

Coutinho is keen on a return to England, whilst Guendouzi is an outcast in Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side. A mixture of off-field behavioural problems, the on-field incident with Neal Maupay and his inability to make amends leave him out of the squad completely.

Edu Gaspar is reportedly a big fan of Coutinho, and Arsenal established contact with his advisers over a move many months ago. Meanwhile, the Barcelona hierarchy are long-term admirers of Guendouzi, so it seems like a decent match.

Guendouzi himself is still unsure of his next step, and he’s prioritising the ‘sporting project’ of any potential new club.

Some Arsenal fans have already shown hesitance to the deal as well. The idea of losing a young talent for a player entering his prime may have short-term benefits, but it could also look like bad business a few years down the line.

Coutinho scored nine goals and assisted eight in 34 games this season. That’s certainly a big upgrade on any current Arsenal midfielder’s output. We know he can produce those kinds of numbers in the Premier League too.

For now, it’s just a rumour. Most of the recent reports lean more towards a loan move for Coutinho, if Arsenal even hold an interest at all. But it’s an interesting one to consider

Transfer rumours: Jimenez, Bale, Ter stegen, Sancho, Ozil, Alaba

Mexican forward Raul Jimenez, 29, is on his way to Manchester United after Wolves agreed a £27m deal to sign Braga's 27-year-old Portuguese striker Paulinho. (RTP, via Express)

Jadon Sancho's anticipated move to Manchester United has moved closer, as Borussia Dortmund are willing to agree on an initial £60m fee for the 20-year-old England winger. (Independent)

Chelsea has tabled an offer for Barcelona's 28-year-old German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. (Cadena Ser, via Mail)

Gareth Bale, 31, has told Wales boss Ryan Giggs he intends to stay at Real Madrid next term even if the forward's lack of games leaves him rusty for the Euros. (Mirror)

Chelsea and Manchester City are among a number of leading clubs who are monitoring whether Austrian utility player David Alaba, 28, signs a new contract at Bayern Munich. (Telegraph)

Leeds are planning two English signings - Everton midfielder Fabian Delph, 30, and Tottenham full-back Danny Rose, 30 - as boss Marcelo Bielsa looks for players with Premier League experience before their top-flight return. (Star)

Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero, 33, wants to hold talks with Manchester United over his future - with Englishman Dean Henderson, 23, heading back to Old Trafford after a loan spell with Sheffield United. (Sun)

Inter Milan are expected to agree on a deal to sign Chile forward Alexis Sanchez, 31, permanently from Manchester United this summer. (Manchester Evening News)

Southampton is still waiting on Tottenham to make an appropriate for 24-year-old Danish midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. (Daily Echo)

Midfielder Mesut Ozil, 31, will stay at Arsenal this summer with his agent revealing that the former Germany international is keen to see out his contract at Emirates Stadium. (Mail)

Liverpool is preparing a move for Bournemouth's Lloyd Kelly, 21, after missing out on the English defender 12 months ago when he was at Bristol City. (Express)

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will also make a decision on 20-year-old English striker Rhian Brewster's next move following his successful loan spell at Swansea. (Liverpool Echo) 

Aubameyang, Sokratis, Torreira - Arsenal players to keep, sell or loan for 2020/21 season

A look at the status of each Gunners player and which ones should be kept, sold or loaned out ahead of next season

With the end of the 2019/20 season in sight, Mikel Arteta and his staff will soon be forced to consider which players fit into his vision for the future of Arsenal and those who don't.

In the January transfer window, much of the focus was on incoming deals for Cedric Soares and Pablo Mari with the only outgoing transfers made were the loans of younger players.

With the potential of missing out on Europa League football still alive, however, the consequences could be dear. Whereas some players may require some form of European football to stay, others may have to may way to raise funds as a result.

Here, football.london assess each player in the squad, as well as a few Under-23s players, and whether they should be kept, sold or loaned out for the 2020/21 campaign

Bernd Leno: Without a doubt the German should be kept. A very strong contender for player of the season, Leno was a key reason Arsenal had a chance to qualify for the Europa League via the Premier League. His performances early on meant the side didn't fall as far down the table as they could have done and just before lockdown, his performances were crucial in turning draws into wins. He won't have it easy when he returns but he's a key part of the side. Keep

Emi Martinez: Since taking over from Leno after his injury, Martinez has exceeded the expectations of many, proving with each passing game that he can be relied upon. Even if he doesn't keep his spot as the first choice goalkeeper, he is more than good enough to be Leno's deputy. Keep

Matt Macey: Although Martinez has proven that all a goalkeeper needs is a chance to impress, it's becoming increasingly unlikely that will come for Macey at Arsenal. The extension in his contract was triggered, meaning it expires in 2021, but it's hard to see the 25-year-old staying beyond that. He needs first team football and with Leno and Martinez ahead of him, that'll be very hard to come by in north London. Sell

Hector Bellerin: Despite still searching for consistency after an injury-laden 2019/20 season, Bellerin has made strides under Arteta. He has looked more comfortable when asked to tuck into more central areas and willing to push forward again but just needs to reach a consistent level of performance which should come. Keep

Cedric Soares: Considering he recently signed a long-term deal with the club, it's clear Cedric will be kept. Keep

Rob Holding: Similar to Bellerin, consistency has been the issue for Holding this season. Although performances improved after the restart, there were still instances where he looked as if he was searching for his rhythm. Loans have been suggest but with three centre-backs [Mustafi, Mari and Chambers] set to miss the start of the season, keeping him may be the more logical decision. Keep

Calum Chambers: Without being fully fit until the end of the calendar year, there won't be any movement from Chambers. Keep

Sokratis: As revealed by football.london on July 27, Sokratis is not part of Arteta's tactical plans for next season. Despite looking to stay at the club this summer, which football.london revealed on July 12, Arsenal must be firm and take control of the situation. As it stands there will be seven centre-backs at the club at the start of next season and if Sokratis needs to be sacrificed one way or another, it should happen. Sell

Shkodran Mustafi: Like Sokratis, Mustafi is intent on staying at the club this summer despite his contract expiring next summer. His hamstring injury will also make shifting him difficult so it appears more likely that he will stay in north London than with Sokratis. Keep [Sell if at all possible]

David Luiz: Having signed his extension, Luiz will obviously stay at the club next season. Keep

Pablo Mari: Like Cedric, having signed a long term deal with the club, Mari will be staying at Arsenal. Keep

William Saliba: Another player that's category is obvious in this debate. Keep

Kieran Tierney: Same here. Keep

Zech Medley: Training with the first team after lockdown, the next step has to be for him to get some real experience next season. Loan

Sead Kolasinac: When looking at what Arteta is looking for, the case can be made to offload Kolasinac. He may be a solid backup to Tierney at left-back but when forced to fill in at centre-back, he struggles. Sell

Ainsley Maitland-Niles: Despite reports that have emerged at different points during the season, Maitland-Niles has proven he can adapt to the needs of Arteta and the team on numerous occasions. Whether it be playing at right-back in a back four or wing-back [on either side] in a back five, he has excelled in these roles more consistently than players natural to these positions. A player like this may not seem important in the midst of a season, but take them away and the job they do will be dearly missed. Keep

Mohamed Elneny: The midfielder was not missed this season and offloading him could help with incoming deals. Sell

Granit Xhaka: Growing into one of the most important members of the side under Arteta, it is a must that he is kept. His absence from the side is noticeable when he doesn't play and the role he plays in building play and protecting the backline is a core foundation for what Arteta is trying to build. Keep

Lucas Torreira: In his eight months in charge, Arteta has been searching for the perfect partner for Xhaka and found it. The only negative is that it isn't Torreira. Brought to the club specifically as a defensive minded player, used to break up play and supply playmakers, it is unfortunate that the Uruguayan doesn't fit into the side as well as Ceballos does. But even when the Spaniard leaves, he won't be able to reach the same levels on the ball which may be reason to sell and look for a midfielder that can. Sell

Dani Ceballos: Despite there being no option to buy, Arsenal should try their hardest time secure a permanent deal for Ceballos. The way he is able to blend defensive and offensive responsibilities is unmatched and is key to the way the side play under Arteta. He may need another creator around him but the job he does in particular stands out as one of the main positives of Arteta's Arsenal.

Both parties have expressed the desire to make the move permanent but Arteta has admitted it is not in Arsenal's hands.

"Again, I am really happy with him, I think he's evolving the right way and is becoming a really important player for us," he said on July 6.

"We are talking to the club. Obviously, we don't own the player, it's not in our hands so the clubs will need to have communication and see what we can do." Keep

Matteo Guendouzi: In an ideal world, the 21-year-old will take the opportunity to make amends with Arteta and start fresh. Xhaka, Maitland-Niles and Mustafi are examples of players that have turned their Arsenal careers around under him but if not, selling him may be best as it'll give Arsenal the funds to properly rebuild the squad ahead of next season. Sell [only if his situation is left unresolved]

Joe Willock: With the ability to play both as a box-to-box midfielder or further forward as a No.10. Willock could be very useful for Arteta next season, especially if Ceballos' move isn't made permanent. Keep

Emile Smith Rowe: Considering Arsenal are severely lacking creativity in the final third, now is the time for Smith Rowe to be given a proper run in the first team. A place in the Europa League will help massively but having proven himself at Huddersfield Town, the 20-year-old is deserving of a chance to do so under Arteta at Arsenal. Keep

Matt Smith: Desperately close to making his Arsenal debut after the restart, Smith must search for first team football in the 2020/21 season. He stood out throughout the 2019/20 campaign for the Under-23s, taking a more disciplined role in front of the defence and performing extremely well. A loan would be best suited for him. Loan

Mesut Ozil: Ozil's stance has remained clear that he will see out his contract at Arsenal which expires in 2021. Keep

Reiss Nelson: Where Nelson differs from Arsenal's other attacking talent is that he can play off both wings effectively while offering different things. He can be a more direct threat off the right, working the touchline, while drifting infield from the left. Also able to play as a No.10. it would be interesting to see if he's tested there at some point. Either way, he is a valuable member of the squad. Keep

Henrikh Mkhitaryan: Roma have a deal in principle to keep Mkhitaryan for the 2020/21 season, which appears to be a permanent deal. Sell

Nicolas Pepe: Another obvious one here. Keep

Gabriel Martinelli: Same with Gabi. Keep

Bukayo Saka: And here with Saka. Keep

Alexandre Lacazette: When it comes to Lacazette a decision either way is understandable. 29-years-old, coming off a season marred by his early ankle injury with two years left on his contract, now seems like a good time to cut ties. The Frenchman, however, is a key part of Arteta's side not just with what he offers on the pitch but the way he guides the youngsters in the side. I'd side towards keeping unless moving him on was necessary to bring a transfer target to the club. Keep

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: The ideal situation is that Aubameyang extends his current deal with the club. Since Arteta's arrival, he's proven his influence is not just with his goals but with the defensive work he gets through and like Lacazette, the work he does with the youngsters. An exceptional club captain, Arsenal must try everything to extend his stay in north London. If they cannot, however, selling him may have to be the answer to avoid losing him on a free next season. Keep

Eddie Nketiah: His rise over the past 12 months has been great to watch and continuing to push Lacazette for the starting position up front, he needs to stay around for the 2020/21 campaign. Keep

Tyreece John-Jules: The 19-year-old is ready for men's football. Although his loan to Lincoln City didn't go totally to plan, playing in different roles for the side, he proved he can perform well at that level after finding a comfort zone in the Under-23s. Next year, he needs to build on this with another spell out on loan. Loan

Folarin Balogun: Like John-Jules, last season Balogun proved he is ready to step up from Under-23s football. Rumours surfaced that Arsenal would be open to letting him go this summer as his contract expires in 2021 but ideally, this shouldn't happen. He may be behind Nketiah and John-Jules in Arteta's plans but allowing him to get first team experience away from the club before he's ready to make the step up in a few seasons should be the way to go. If they do decide to sell, a buy-back clause is a must. Loan

Source: Football.london

Mikel Arteta identifies key position to fill in transfer window after 3–2 win over Watford

According to Goal.com, and following Arsenal's successful finish to the premier league 2019/2020 season, where they hammered visitors Watford 3-2 at the Emirates on Sunday the 26th of July 2020, Arsenal's head coach Mikel Arteta, has set priority on signing central defenders for the new season.

The decision was reached, following injury spells from majority of his defenders, with the most recent one being Mustafi. Mustafi got injured at the FA Cup semi final fixture against Manchester City, and after undergoing scan tests at the Emirates, the head coach revealed he sprained the tendon of his hamstring. In the coach's words, he said the tendon came off the bone at the hamstring area and this usually takes weeks to heal. The head coach confirmed that this injury makes Mustafi a doubt to feature at the FA Cup final against Chelsea next Saturday, and even more threatening as he may miss the first few weeks of the new 2020/2021 football season.

 

Arsenal have suffered several injury spells in their defense, with Calum Chambers and Pablo Mari making the list of most recent defenders to go out injured. Pablo Mari obtained his injury against Manchester City, back at the restart of the premier league on June 17th. The player sprained the ligaments of his ankle, and despite having undergone a successful surgery, the player is set to miss the finals and a few matches of the new season. The same news is applicable to Calum Chambers, who suffered an ACL tear on his left knee against Chelsea at the Emirates last season.

All these injuries has created an unbalance in the system of Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta has said he is definitely going to bring in options to fill out those positions for the new season.

William Saliba would feature for Arsenal next season, and he plays as a Centre defender. His presence may limit the number of centre-backs Mikel Arteta would be purchasing this summer.

Arsenal has been linked with Dayot Upamecano, Malang Sarr and Thiago Silva as centre defence options for the new season, but Mikel Arteta may bypass this list and select a world class defender who can fit his system of play well, as he is mandated to qualify Arsenal for the Champions League next season.

Aubameyang's Father gave hint on Son's future

Arsenal striker Aubameyang 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has entered into the final year of his current contract at Arsenal and he is yet to agree to a new deal with the gunners and the Arsenal fans are always on the lookout for hints on if he will decide to renew. Aubameyang’s father has posted a message about his son after the win over Watford which saw the Gabon international score a brace.

Aubameyang’s current contract at Arsenal will end in 2021 and the gunners have in the last few months been reportedly trying to tie him down to a new deal but nothing has up-to now been announced as both the club and the player himself are not usually direct in the questions about the situation.

Aubameyang scored twice in Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Watford and the dad took to social media to congratulate his son on scoring yet another 22 Premier League goals in one season. The father of the striker also seemed to talk about the press claiming that they knew nothing about the contract situation hinting at the Gabonese striker probably staying at the Emirates Stadium since most reports from the media say that he could leave.

AUBAMEYANG’S DAD PIERRE AUBAMEYANG MESSAGE ON INSTAGRAM

Many Arsenal fans have come out with their interpretation of the message by the father of their star striker but most believe that he could be hinting at possibly staying as some reports in the last few weeks did say that the hierarchy of the North Londoners has a great relationship with the dad, and so that is giving hope to the fans that a renewal could soon be announced.

Aubameyang has been linked with a move to many top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan in the last few months and most reports claim that the 31 year old could be tempted to going there since they offer UEFA Champions League football and a great shot at getting trophies.

Saka faces dilemma over International career

Arsenal starlet, Bukayo Saka Arsenal starlet, Bukayo Saka has said he is yet to decide on whether he would play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria or the Three Lions of England. 

The 18-year-old star has represented England at youth level and has been pushing for inclusion in the Under-21 squad, but remains eligible to play for Nigeria though, he is yet to receive a call-up. In an interview with Sky Sports News, Saka said he will consult with his family members at the right time to choose either Nigeria or England. 

“It’s a tough choice. I’m happy to have represented England at the youth level but I’m also proud of my Nigerian heritage. 

“We haven’t been picked by any team so it’s about staying humble and when the time comes we’ll make the decision,” he said. 

It will be recalled the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick recently in an Instagram Live chat said though there are a number of qualified players doing well for the Super Eagles the door is always open for Saka if he desires to play for the country.

Premier League 2020/21 season to start on September 12

The 2020-21 Premier League season will begin on September 12 and conclude on May 23, the English top-flight announced on Friday.

Most clubs will have a seven-week break between the end of the 2019/20 season this weekend and the start of the new campaign.

Final showdown as United, Chelsea, Leicester battle for Champions League tickets

Liverpool win Premier League to end 30-year title drought

However, Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United and Wolves could have just three weeks off if they were to progress to the finals of the Champions League or Europa League in August.

The Champions League final will take place in Lisbon on August 23 with the Europa League final two days earlier in Cologne.

“Premier League Shareholders today agreed to start the 2020/21 Premier League season on 12 September 2020,” the league said in a statement. “The final match round of the campaign will take place on 23 May 2021.”

The English Football League confirmed the Championship, League One and League Two will also start the same weekend.

The Premier League said it “will continue to consult The FA and EFL regarding the scheduling of all domestic competitions” amid difficulties with packing the League and FA Cup in their current formats into a congested calendar.

A September start means the season will almost certainly begin behind closed doors, with spectators only set to return to venues in England on a socially-distanced basis from October 1. (AFP)

Arsenal Latest Team News ahead of Watford (h)

The latest information on our current injuries and suspensions ahead of Sunday’s match.

Bernd Leno

Right knee. Sustained moderate ligament sprain during Brighton & Hove Albion (a) on June 20.

Now participating in outside running and ball drills.

Aiming to be back in full training next week.

Shkodran Mustafi

Right hamstring sustained during FA Cup semi-final on Saturday.

Will miss remaining matches of this season. Further details on recovery programme will be confirmed in the coming days.

A status update on the following players with longer term injuries:

Calum Chambers

Left knee. Ruptured anterior cruciate ligament of his left knee during Chelsea (h) on December 29.

Latest update on Calum:

Progressed to the next stage of his recovery and is now running and integrating outside with light ball work.

Will continue to work hard throughout the new close season period with the aim of being back to full training as soon as possible this calendar year.

Pablo Mari

Left ankle. Sustained significant sprain to ankle ligaments during Manchester City (a) on June 17.

Latest update on Pablo:

Now off crutches after surgery and moving freely without aid.

Has returned home to Spain for a short period, where he continues to receive specialist attention and extensive therapy.

Will return to the UK later in July to resume his rehabilitation at our training centre throughout the new close season, with the aim of returning to full training in September.

 

Gabriel Martinelli

Left knee. Sustained injury during training on June 21. Successful arthroscopic procedure undertaken to repair a lesion in the cartilage of the left knee.

Latest update on Gabi:

Currently recovering in a knee brace after his operation, which took place during the last week of June.

Surgery was successful, with consultants and the Arsenal Medical team very encouraged with Gabi’s current progress at this stage of his recovery.

Currently at our training centre every day receiving specialist attention and support from our medical team.

Will continue his recovery throughout the new close season period, with the aim of a return to full training by the end of the calendar year.

 

As part of Premier League protocol, all members of our first team squad and support staff continue to be regularly tested for COVID-19.

Source: Arsenal.com

REFEREE ANTHONY TAYLOR AND HIS TEAM WILL TAKE CHARGE OF THE HEADS UP FA CUP FINAL

Anthony Taylor will join a unique group of officials to have refereed the FA Cup Final twice

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A REFEREE? FIND OUT MORE

The team of match officials to take charge of the Heads Up FA Cup Final has been announced, with Cheshire FA’s Anthony Taylor being appointed as referee for the showpiece fixture.

Taylor will be joined by assistant referees Gary Beswick (Durham FA) and Adam Nunn (Wiltshire FA), fourth official Chris Kavanagh (Manchester FA) and reserve assistant referee Lee Betts (Norfolk FA).

Stuart Attwell (Birmingham FA) will be the video assistant referee (VAR), and will be joined at Stockley Park by assistant VAR (AVAR) Steve Child (London FA).

And having previously refereed the 2017 Emirates FA Cup Final between Arsenal and Chelsea, Taylor will join a unique group of officials to have taken charge of the Final on two occasions, becoming only the eighth person to do so and the first to repeat the duty since Arthur Kingscott in 1901.

While the appointment to officiate an FA Cup Final usually happens only once in an official’s career, the FA Referees’ Committee decided that, in this unique year, it was necessary to make an exception.

"Refereeing an FA Cup Final is a dream but, unlike the players, a referee usually only does the Final once,” explained FA Referees’ Committee chairman David Elleray.

“This makes the appointment very special and a significant part of the Cup Final appointment is the opportunity to share this – the English refereeing pinnacle – with partners, family, friends and those who have been an important part of their long journey to the Final.

“Sadly, this year’s Final will be very different and will be held without all these elements in an empty stadium. With this in mind, the Committee decided it would be unfair to appoint someone who has not yet done the Final and have, instead, appointed Anthony Taylor to his second FA Cup Final.”

Altrincham-based Taylor, who is regarded as one of Europe’s and England’s top officials, will next month referee in the UEFA Champions League or Europa League with the same team of assistants, Nunn, Beswick and Attwell (VAR).

And he spoke of his honour at being able to take charge of this year’s Final, ironically featuring the same clubs from his last Final appearance in 2017.

“Of course, any Final is obviously a huge honour and privilege for the whole team to be doing and I sincerely mean that about the team because I’m in the fortunate position where I get to work with the same two assistants on every game both at home and abroad,” he said.

“It’s just an iconic occasion at the best of times, but this year is a unique one with no spectators. We know there are different circumstances this year and the 2020 Final will always be remembered because of this.

“But it was a little bit unexpected to get the call, having already refereed the FA Cup Final a couple of years ago, so I’m very humbled and equally honoured to have been asked to take charge of the Final again.

“It’s ironic that it’s the same clubs, but it’s now two different teams. Clubs who reach the Final don’t get there by fluke, and whichever teams end up in the FA Cup Final, it’s always going to be an intense occasion to officiate.

“However, any official who has refereed the FA Cup Final will say that when you’re appointed to the game, it’s not just recognition for you as an individual, it’s a recognition for all of the people who’ve supported you over the years and helped you to reach the elite level.

“That’s what makes the occasion so special, not just the match but that you get to share it with your close friends and family who will be there supporting you. Obviously, that’s not going to be possible this time, but there’s other ways and means that friends and family can be supporting us on the day.”

Source: FA Official Website 

Arteta offers outcasts Ozil and Guendouzi Arsenal lifeline after pointing to Xhaka as an example

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has hinted both Mesut Ozil and Matteo Guendouzi may have a future at the club – pointing to Granit Xhaka’s own remarkable turnaround as an example.

While Guendouzi continues to be left out after his antics in the defeat at Brighton last month, Ozil has yet to kick a ball since the season resumed.

 

Arteta has given short shrift to any questions asked about a potential return for the pair, with neither being named in any of the past seven matchday squads.

Guendouzi is reportedly training alone following his bust-up with Brighton’s Neal Maupay, with his temperament believed to be a concern to Arteta, who has likewise left Ozil – the club’s highest-earner – on the sidelines for the past 10 games.

While the writing may appear to be on the wall with regards to their respective futures at the club, Arteta spoke of another player who has overcome difficult times in recent months.

Former boss Unai Emery stripped Xhaka of the captaincy after he swore at Arsenal fans while being substituted during a draw with Crystal Palace in October.

Xhaka’s relationship with supporters has been mixed since his arrival in 2016 but, under Arteta, his performances have improved and he has become a major part of the side.

‘The challenge with Granit was to convince him that there was still a place for him here, that I had big belief in him and that things can turn around pretty quickly in this industry,’ Arteta said when asked about Xhaka’s return to form.

‘He had to send the right messages, first of all he had to believe that he could do it and if that was the case we were going to support him all the way through. I am really glad to hear and sense as well the reaction from the fans towards him.

‘If you are willing and if you are consistent and you really want to do it there is always a way back.’

Pushed on whether Ozil and Guendouzi could return if they show both the willing and consistency Arteta called for, the 38-year-old said: ‘That applies for any player and any member of the staff. All players know this.

‘If you show that, that you decide to do the best not only for yourself but for the team and for the club, I think everyone will welcome you.

‘It’s not just me that needs to give the green light, it’s everybody that has to be supportive. You need to feel that support from everybody because otherwise it’s a very uncomfortable situation.’

Arsenal don’t need European football to attract talent – Arteta

Arsenal will still be able to attract top players to the club even if they do not secure European football next season, manager Mikel Arteta has said.

Arsenal are 10th in the Premier League and in danger of missing out on a spot in Europe for the first time since the 1995-96 season.

“I don’t think we should bring players that need a lot of convincing.

“The feeling I get when I talk to a lot of people is that the players still want to come to the club because of the history, the way we do things, our values, the fans we have, our stadium,” he added

Arteta's transcript on Aston Villa, Ozil and more

Mikel Arteta was back in front of the press on Monday ahead of our Premier League clash at Aston Villa.

Our head coach discussed a range of issues, including the FA Cup final, Shkodran Mustafi, Mesut Ozil and more.

 

Here's a full transcript:

 

on knowing we'll face Chelsea in the Heads Up FA Cup final...

Well, I was interested to see how they were going to play and obviously the formation and players that they picked. It was a really good game with very different moments, I believe. The scoreline... I don't know if it exactly reflects what happened but obviously what is very clear is that we are going to face a very difficult opponent in the final.

on facing Aston Villa and the fact they have to fight for survival...

Absolutely. They have a massive urgency because they probably have to win both games to have a chance to survive. When you are in that situation you are fighting for your life, so they are going to give absolutely everything. We have to be in the same mood. We still have to win both games and wait to have a chance to qualify for Europe and that's the mood that I want from everybody involved.

on the team's availability...

We are assessing Mustafi after he had to come off, because he felt something in his hamstring. So we have to see how he is in the next few days. The rest are okay. We will get Eddie Nketiah back from suspension and Cedric back because he was cup-tied and the rest, I don't know. I have to see them today and see how they recover because they played a lot of minutes in the last few games and I'll pick the team again that can go and beat Villa.

on whether he has confidence that Mustafi's injury is only minor...

We don't know. Obviously everybody was with heavy legs and tiredness and everything, but he had to come off. For Musti to come off, that's not very usual that he has to come off when he's not injured. We will have to see today and get the news from the doctor.

on how he's feeling ahead of the final two league games...

I wanted to get to this point with options and clearly, we have options. It's not in our hands at the moment and we knew that was going to be difficult, but we need to give it a go and try to win both games and then wait and see what happens. If we do that, I think we will have a good chance.

on whether the cup final will impact on squad rotation...

We've been changing quite a lot in the last few games because the schedule that we had was pretty hectic and because everybody has been training so well and very involved. They needed opportunities and they're making me doubt all the time because they are performing well.

on whether Mesut Ozil is likely to play against Aston Villa...

Mesut is training at the moment.

on whether that means he is likely to be involved...

Like every player that is training.

on being unclear on whether Ozil will be involved...

Because I have to pick from 23 or 24 players to do the squad. I will do that this afternoon.

 

on David Luiz and Granit Xhaka's turnaround…

They are two players that are worth spending time with and giving confidence, because I know how professional they are, how much they want to be successful at this football club and how much they care. Sometimes when they react or they have difficulties, they really suffer and when that happens, they deserve support and back up. They are showing from their performances that they deserve to be here and you can see how they fight for the club.

on how open Granit Xhaka was to adapting his game…

The challenge with Granit was to convince him that there was still a place for him here, that I had big belief in him and that things can turn around pretty quickly in this industry. He had to send the right messages, first of all he had to believe that he could do it and if that was the case we were going to support him all the way through. I am really glad to hear and sense as well the reaction from the fans towards him. I think they can appreciate what he has done, that's in the past and there's a lot of positives to take from difficult situations. We all learn from that and I think he is a really good example for any player that is in a difficult moment... If you are willing and if you are consistent and you really want to do it there is always a way back.

on Aston Villa…

In my opinion, they have been very unlucky in a lot of games. It's a team that wants to play football, that makes it really difficult for their opponent when they have the ball. I think the fans not being in the ground, which is one of my favourites in England, is a big disadvantage for them.We really need to be careful that they are alive and you can see that in the last few games that I've watched of them. We better be ready.

on how far can we go if the players stick to the direction we're going...

All credit goes to the players for the way they've been performing and the way they've been believing in what we are trying to do. Obviously this is a marathon, this is a long-term thing that has to be played and you have to do it consistently for 10 months. It's not good enough to just do it for a week so we haven't done anything, just won two games that give us a big plus in the league and the sense that if we are all doing our best we can beat any team but now we have to be consistent and do it every three days.

on if he needs financial backing in the summer like Chelsea have been…

First of all I think Frank is doing a really good job, he took a difficult situation after the ban that they had and obviously that context is different to ours. I am happy to see him do so well and I look forward to facing him in the final and I know the challenge will be difficult for both. I am very happy with the environment that I've had, with the communication that I have with the people at the club and with the plan we are putting together.

 

on whether he gets nervous watching us play from the back...

No. I get nervous when we kick the ball long. The quicker it goes there, the quicker it comes back. I'd rather do that with the right structure, the right timing and using the right spaces. It's something that we have to do more often.

 

on what Kieran Tierney is like to manage...

I think I can talk for all the staff when I say we are delighted with him. He's a joy of a kid. He's always willing to do more, he always wants to train harder, he wants to push himself more. He had some difficult moments since he joined but hopefully he feels [settled]. We really like him and we really support him. I really appreciate everything he's done since we joined. For me, he's a player who is a really good role model for any other player in the squad.

 

on whether it helps to have less on the Villa game than them...

I don't want that mindset, I'm sorry. It does matter to us and a lot because I want to win ball games like they do, and I want to play football with that urgency and aggression in our game.

 

on whether Auba needs to sign his contract before the final so we can plan for transfers...

When I was talking about the uncertain things that we have on the table, obviously he's one of them. There is another one obviously of where we are going to finish and whether we're going to be playing in Europe or not, which is going to have an impact. Then all these situations with the market, how it's going to develop. With Auba, I think I've been very clear with what I want. The quicker we do it, for me personally, the better because the player will be more focused, more determined and more calm. But we have to respect the timings as well and the needs of the football club.

 

on if there is a way back for Ozil and Guendouzi with 'willingness and consistency'...

That applies for any player and any member of the staff. All players know this. If you show that, that you decide to do the best not only for yourself but for the team and for the club, I think everyone will welcome you. It's not just me that needs to give the green light, it's everybody that has to be supportive. You need to feel that support from everybody because otherwise it's a very uncomfortable situation.

 

on whether Granit has benefitted from playing without crowds...

Well obviously you talk after the incident that happened and you are completely right. Afterwards, when I joined and we had the crowds, I didn't sense any individual reaction towards him. I think the crowd started to be much more positive. But I don't know, it's more a question for him. But he's someone I think who can handle any situation. I don't know, good question!

 

on Olivier Giroud and whether he'd still like to have him here...

He's playing well. He's a real handful. I know Olivier and how dangerous it is every time the ball is around the box. He's scoring a lot of goals at the moment. He's earned his place in the team. I'm happy for him as well because I know him well and he's such a great character.

 

on Santi Cazorla and the possibility of returning as a coach...

My opinion of Santi cannot be any higher. Personally, first, with the type of person he is and what he brings to that dressing room, but then also as a player for what he did throughout his career. About the coaching role and the future, we will see what happens. Right now, he's just finished [at Villarreal] so let him enjoy that moment and we'll see what happens in the future.

 

on whether he's had a discussion with Santi about a role here...

Not yet.

Source:Arsenal.com

History may repeat itself between Arsenal fc and Chelsea fc in FA Cup final

Lampard's Chelsea football club, got a rare win against Manchester United this season when they played in their FA cup final tie at the Old Trafford. Manchester, has won all their previous meetings this season against Chelsea, which left many Manchester fans believing that it could have been an easy win against Chelsea to book their hopes of winning the Cup 13th times. It was a very poor performance from Manchester players which show them lose 3-1 to Chelsea at their home ground.

"Olivier Giroud and Mason Mount scored the two goals for Chelsea, while Harry Maguire from Manchester United scored own goal. Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty for the Red Devils.

Arsenal in the other hand, showed an excellent job against their big rivals Manchester city a team they have lost against in several occasions. The last time arsenal beat Manchester city, was 2017 when they came across them in the same competition also in the same level, the semifinals. Arsenal won against City and booked a place in the finals when they met their London rivals Chelsea. Arsenal went ahead to win the cup in an exemplary beautiful game they played against Chelsea by wining 2-1.

Aubameyang scored both goals for Arsenal in his first appearance in the competition this year while Manchester city failed to see the back of the net.

In this year's Emirates FA cup, the same has happened. This is a repeat of what happened in the last 3 years, but we will have to wait and see if Arsenal wins the cup again.

The most interesting part, Arsenal have rarely lost in the Emirates FA cup which puts them with much hope of winning the cup once again. Considering their position in the premier league, Arsenal have minimal chances of qualifying for Europer league ahead of Sheffield United, wholves, Burney and their north London rivals Spurs.

Chances are, if Arsenal are going to win this Emirates FA cup this year, they will automatically qualify for Europer league next season despite their league position.

Arsenal have missed champions league for consecutive years and they have been left praying in the Europer league instead, in all those years. Last year, it's the year they almost qualified to champions league, when they reached in their Europer league final but lost the chance against Chelsea.

History may repeat itself once again. This is the reason; if Arsenal can not qualify for Europer league by finishing in a good league position, they will be left with only one option of qualifying for Europer league, and that's Winning their FA cup final against Chelsea. But if they fail to win, and lose to Chelsea, it will be the second time Arsenal are denied the European championship by Chelsea after they were denied the same chance last year when Chelsea won their Europer league final. If Arsenal could have won, they could have played in this year's champions league.

It will go in history that Arsenal, for the first time in years, have not qualified for a European competition. Though Arsenal have a chance to redeem themselves. They have shown that they can beat any team in English premier league by beating Pep's City and Liverpool in the same week.

Arsenal is the only team that has qualified in the most FA cup finals with a 21 times record wining the cup 13 times lossing 6 times in their finals. They have a chance to extend their win record if they win it 14th times. Meanwhile, Chelsea qualified for the finals in the 14th round and they have won the competition 7 times lossing in their 6 finals.

What's your opinion in this year's Emirates FA cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea?

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