Arsenal prep for tough start at Old Trafford

Mikel Arteta faces the media before Arsenal's season opener away at Old Trafford, with focus on fitness, transfers and squad readiness.

Arsenal brace for tough start as Arteta outlines plans

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta spoke to reporters ahead of the season opener at Manchester United. Arsenal go into the game after a mixed pre season with three wins and two losses, finishing with a positive result against Athletic Bilbao. Viktor Gyokeres opened his account for the club and players such as Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori have shown fitness improvements after recent concerns.
Arteta is expected to share as much team news as possible, though the transfer window remains open and links to Eberechi Eze have resurfaced. No deals have been confirmed and the focus will be on readiness for the opening fixtures and balancing squad depth with recruitment opportunities.

Arsenal faces a test of balance this season. The club is trying to strengthen depth while protecting the core group, a move that signals long term planning alongside immediate results. How Arteta manages this moment will reveal how bold the club is in the market and how much patience fans should expect.
If the opening run goes smoothly, it may ease pressure on signings; if results slip, management may face questions about spending and strategy.

Highlights

The road ahead will test Arsenal at every level