We Had Many Injuries, Liverpool Had None
Arteta: Not Winning the Premier League is Painful, Very Painful!
Mikel Arteta, in the press conference ahead of Arsenal’s match against Bournemouth, said losing the Premier League title was very painful for him and his team.
Arsenal lost the Premier League title this Sunday and witnessed Liverpool’s title celebrations four weeks before the end of the season. A couple of days later, they lost to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals at home and now, on paper, have a lower chance of winning in Europe.
Arsenal, who must face Paris Saint-Germain in Paris on Wednesday, have to play Bournemouth in London tomorrow. Mikel Arteta, in the press conference before this match, said Arsenal’s work in the Premier League is not yet finished.
Any updates on Calafiori’s condition?
No. He is still injured and cannot play.
Jorginho?
He also cannot play.
But it was said Jorginho might return for the PSG match?
His condition is more complicated than expected. But he is recovering well.
Is Jorginho’s new issue a broken rib?
No.
Will we see Jorginho again?
Yes, I think so (laughs).
Does Kai Havertz have a chance to play before the end of the season?
Yes. If everything continues as it is now, then yes. In that case, Kai has a chance to play in one or two matches before the season ends.
Declan Rice’s exceptional performances in recent Arsenal matches?
Not just in recent matches. Declan has always been known for his consistency and is always ready to serve Arsenal when the team needs him. He has adapted well to the team and the club.
Predictions show Bournemouth has a high chance of qualifying. Do you agree?
Yes. This only means one thing for us. We must play well to defeat Bournemouth.
Which players are unavailable?
Our situation this season has been truly strange and painful. Before the PSG match, I was looking at the injury list and suddenly realized something shocking. Tomiyasu, Calafiori, Gabriel, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Thomas Partey—all were on the list together. I thought to myself, what a strange situation—these players could form a starting lineup.
How much are you thinking about the return match against PSG?
We have talked about it with the team. But we haven’t shut everything down until that day. Even though we won’t be champions, there are still important things to do in the Premier League.
Liverpool managed to win the title despite dramatic contract extensions for Salah and Van Dijk during the season. What’s your take?
No, they actually had no internal issues to distract them. You must have seen that these two players and all their main stars were available throughout the season.
The match against Iraola’s brilliant team?
No one thought he could take Bournemouth to such a position in the Premier League. I think he has changed many things at that club, and his work has been truly outstanding.
Is not winning the Premier League painful?
Yes. Very painful. I feel it with all my heart. But I understand that Liverpool was a team without ups and downs throughout the season and had everything needed to win the title.