Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed some of the unusual methods he uses during pre-season to prepare his players for unexpected challenges and disruptions on matchdays.
Arteta’s Premier League champions recently experienced travel problems while heading to Italy for Wednesday’s Champions League encounter with Napoli. Air traffic control issues delayed the team’s arrival by around three hours.
However, according to the BBC, Arteta said his squad was able to handle the disruption because he had deliberately put them through similar situations during pre-season.
“I love those challenges, I try to create them in pre-season,” Arteta said.
“So when they happen, we have already experienced them and we are ready.”
The Arsenal boss explained that he sometimes changes the team’s normal routines by delaying transportation or meals, using alternative routes to stadiums and even making dressing rooms warmer and less comfortable.
“Get to the stadium very late, change the routine so the players have to do something else,” he added.
“When it happens, and it can – the flight can be cancelled, or the train is delayed, there is so much traffic, I don’t want the players and staff panicking.”
Arteta Wants Players to Adapt Under Pressure
Arteta said the purpose of these disruptions is to help his players learn how to adapt when things do not go according to plan.
“When that happens, adapt to it. We have two or three hours on the plane – can we use it? Play together, spend some time together, sleep.
The Arsenal manager believes exposing players to unpredictable situations helps them remain calm and focused instead of allowing external problems to affect their performances.
Arsenal Boss Has Used Other Unusual Methods
Arteta has previously introduced several unconventional ideas to motivate and prepare his squad.
On one occasion, he brought a light bulb into the dressing room and encouraged his players to be energetic and “shine”. On another, he hired professional pickpockets to take players’ phones and wallets during a team dinner, using the experience as a lesson in awareness and staying alert.
In 2023, Arteta also brought a dog named Win to Arsenal’s training ground as part of an effort to boost morale and strengthen the sense of togetherness within the squad.
His creative approach has also influenced other members of the club. In April, a fire was reportedly lit at the training ground before Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Sporting.
Arteta’s side will travel to Sunderland on Saturday as they continue their Premier League title defence.
