Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended the club following the withdrawal of 11 senior players from international duty during the recent break. Arteta stated that the north London side maintains a very good relationship with most national associations, according to Sky Sports. The manager noted that decisions were made on an individual basis to ensure player welfare and recovery.
Key figures including Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice were among those who remained at the club training ground rather than joining their respective squads. Per The Athletic, the high number of absences led to questions regarding the club's cooperation with international managers. Arteta dismissed suggestions of friction, insisting that communication remains transparent between all parties.
The manager clarified that several players carried minor injuries or fatigue following a congested domestic schedule. Medical staff provided documentation to the relevant football associations to support the withdrawals, per Reuters. Arsenal prepare to resume their Premier League campaign this weekend with a nearly full squad available for selection.
