Emile Smith Rowe wades in on Mikel Arteta debate as next Bukayo Saka called up

11 February 2024 , 04:00

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has come in for criticism over his touchline antics

Arsenal sit third in the Premier League table and Mikel Arteta will be well aware anything less than a win at West Ham would seriously damage their title hopes.

On a weekend that has seen both of the Gunners' title rivals pick up all three points in Manchester City and Liverpool, Arsenal need to do exactly the same at the home of their London rivals. However, that is easier said than done, especially given Arteta's men have already been beaten twice by the Hammers this term - once in the Carabao Cup, the other in the league.

The London Stadium was also where, for some, last season's title tilt fell apart as Arsenal surrendered a two-goal lead while talismanic forward Bukayo Saka missed a penalty. Arteta will be desperate to avoid similar heartache this time around.

With that being said, Mirror Football has analysed some of the main Gunners-related headlines emerging out of the Emirates on Sunday, February 11.

Gabriel addresses early season omission

Gabriel has discussed a difficult start to the current campaign

Arsenal ace Gabriel Magalhaes has revealed what was said between him and Arteta at the start of this season after the Brazil international was dropped from the starting line-up for the first three games of the campaign.

Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal line up as last-gasp January transfers are secured

At the time, Arteta's decision sparked plenty of speculation that suggested Gabriel was bound for the Emirates exit. However, the 26-year-old himself has since shed light on that time in his Arsenal career.

"It was tough, obviously at the start," the 26-year-old said. "I wanted to play and it was very difficult for me but I understood what the coach had to do. It is difficult for any player to not be in the team but now I’m back in I want to keep on working hard to prove my worth.

"He (Arteta) spoke to me and obviously explained the reasons behind the decision. Why I should stay – but the most important thing was to remain focused and concentrate – he knew how important I was to the team, so I’m happy to be back and to be able to help the team in every game."

Smith Rowe weighs in on Arteta debate

Emile Smith Rowe has discussed Mikel Arteta's touchline conduct

Arsenal's very own Emile Smith Rowe is the latest famous face to have their say on how Arteta behaves on the touchline during games.

After last Sunday's enthralling 3-1 victory over Liverpool, the Gunners boss came in for some criticism, with many pundits suggesting that Arteta was guilty of over-celebrating and letting his emotions get the better of him.

Ahead of Sunday's trip to West Ham, Smith Rowe has explained what he feels sets his manager apart from other bosses in the Premier League. He told Sky Sports: "I'd probably say his passion as well.

"Sometimes it just feels like he is on the pitch as well, I know other managers have passion as well but with him, it feels like he is the 12th man on the pitch." Read more on Arteta's controversial celebrations.

Arteta promotes 'next Saka'

Amario Cozier-Duberry has been training with the first team (Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arteta could shock fans and hand Amario Cozier-Duberry his Arsenal debut against West Ham on Sunday after being impressed by the teenager in first-team training.

Cozier-Duberry is widely believed to be one of the brightest talents in the Gunners' famed Hale-End academy set-up. He is out of contract come the end of the season and has caught the eye of Borussia Dortmund, Ajax, Anderlecht, Wolves and Newcastle to name just five.

The 18-year-old has 10 goals and eight assists in 31 games for the under-18s and 12 goals and seven assists in 37 appearances for the under-21s.

Arsenal lose eight players and sign three as January transfer window closes

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Josh O'Brien