'Managing pain in the tummy' – Arteta on international break: news

Mikel Arteta: Managing the ‘Pain in the Tummy’ and Arsenal Team News After the International Break

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted that the frustration from recent setbacks lingered throughout the international break, describing a persistent “pain in the tummy” that his squad must harness as fuel upon returning to Premier League action.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s clash against Leeds United, Arteta reflected on the bitter taste left by a damaging defeat to Brighton prior to the international window. Rather than attempting to ignore the disappointment during the two-week pause, the Gunners boss insisted the team must embrace the discomfort and channel it into a commanding performance.

“The Pain Is Still There in the Tummy”

Addressing how the squad processed the defeat over the break, Arteta highlighted the fine margins at the elite level:

“The pain is still there in the tummy, and tomorrow we certainly have to play with that. It was a lesson for us when you don’t hit certain basics, especially against a really good side. You become almost unrecognisable, and it can happen. But it’s been more about learning from who we are and how thin the line is from being exceptional to becoming very average.”

Arteta noted that carrying that sting into competition serves as an essential reminder of standard-setting and accountability as the Premier League title race intensifies.

Arsenal Injury Updates and Squad Selection Headaches

Beyond the psychological fallout of the break, Arteta outlined the physical toll international fixtures frequently inflict on top-flight squads:

• Fitness Assessments: Several returning international players picked up minor knocks and fitness issues while away with their national sides, leaving Arteta with last-minute selection decisions.

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• Workload Management: With a grueling autumn calendar spanning both domestic fixtures and the UEFA Champions League, squad rotation and load management will dictate the starting lineup.

• Message to the Supporters: Arteta reiterated that the team owes the fans an immediate, energetic response to banish the lingering frustration and restore momentum.