Arteta Vows To Field Strong Team Against Palace Despite PSG Showdown

By: Gyang Dakwo

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that he will play a strong side against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, even with a crucial Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain coming up next week.

Although Arsenal’s main focus is now on the Champions League, Arteta is determined not to lose momentum in the Premier League. The Gunners are currently 13 points behind league leaders Liverpool, who could secure the title if Arsenal lose to Palace.

Arteta warned against disrupting his team’s flow by resting players.
“We cannot think in those terms. When the players are fit and available and want to play, they have to play,” he told reporters ahead of the match.
“They are at their best when they are playing regularly. If they are not ready to perform, they will not play. But if they are, we will play them.”

One concern was star winger Bukayo Saka, who needed treatment after a tough challenge in Arsenal’s recent win over Ipswich. However, Arteta offered a positive update.
“He is nothing too serious. We have to wait and see how he reacts after the training session, but I think he has a good chance to play tomorrow.”

Arsenal will benefit from a free weekend before taking on PSG in the Champions League, and Arteta welcomed the short break, especially with limited squad options.
“We are really short in numbers. It is good to have a little gap,” he said.

Despite the European showdown on the horizon, Arteta stressed that the Palace game remains the immediate priority.
“Let us take the opportunity first. Earn the right to win the game tomorrow against a really good side. They have a strong record away from home,” he said.
“Our incentive is to win and continue with the run we are in. The rest we cannot control.”

Arsenal are currently on a solid run of form, and Arteta is eager to keep that going as they chase European glory.