Lack of transfers can help Foxes - Arteta
ARSENAL boss Mikel Arteta has pointed out a positive of Leicester City’s lack of transfer activity as the clubs prepare to face off this afternoon (3pm ko), writes Jordan Blackwell.
There is a fresh feel to the Gunners squad this season, with the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Fabio Vieira signed, and with William Saliba returning from a loan to play at centre-back.
City, meanwhile, are yet to bring in a single new outfield player.
However, Arteta was quick to mention that City’s squad has been together for a long time.
That means there is no bedding-in period for new signings, nor adjustments for players to make as they accommodate new recruits.
In turn, that should lead to more cohesive performances.
Asked how City compare to last season, Arteta said at his press conference: “I think it’s difficult to compare, we’ve just played one competitive match.
“They’ve had some good games – I watched the game against Sevilla.
“They’ve been together for a long time and it’s a really strong squad with a manager and coaching staff that have been doing a fantastic job and have huge experience in the league. “It’s always difficult against them.” City have lost 13 of their last 15 league matches at Arsenal, and while the one victory and one draw came recently, they both came in games played behind closed doors.
If City are to improve that record today, they will have to do so in searing heat, with temperatures forecast to reach the mid-30s.
Both teams will have to adapt to that, and Arteta has said that will include making the most of the five substitutes.
Against Brentford, Brendan Rodgers used just one substitute, the fewest of any boss on the opening weekend.
“It’s the conditions and the context of the game,” Arteta said.
“We’re going to have to adapt to it. We know we’re going to have the water break and get the players in the best possible condition to adapt to it.
“Players will need to be ready mentally to play in those conditions.
“We have five subs as well, which is very helpful.
“In this country, we never get it right. When it’s raining and cloudy, it’s always raining and cloudy.
“When it’s hot, it’s too hot! We have to say: ‘Listen, 23 degrees, a little bit of shadow, a nice breeze and then we are all happy.’”