Mikel Arteta Advocates for Expanded Premier League Matchday Squads

Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has expressed his desire for the Premier League to increase the maximum size of matchday squads from 20 to 23 players, citing the importance of preserving both player value and mental well-being.

Currently, Premier League teams can name nine substitutes, with managers allowed to make five substitutions during a match. Additionally, a sixth substitution is permitted for players suspected of having a head injury.

Arteta’s comments come in light of the challenges he faces in leaving summer signing Christian Norgaard out of his matchday selections. He hopes the Premier League will consider adopting a policy similar to that of the Champions League, which permits squads of 23 players, including substitute goalkeepers.

“At the moment, there are two or three players who must sit out of the squad. That is a reality that I cannot change,” Arteta stated. “These are the current rules. I sincerely hope that next season, instead of limiting teams to 18 outfield players, the Premier League will expand that to 20.

“I urge them to implement this change, as it is much more manageable for the squad and helps to maintain the value and mental health of the players—no one wants to be left out of the squad. I implore them to assist us in this matter. We can manage logistics such as hotels and travel quite well. This change would be immensely beneficial for everyone involved. The most challenging aspect is having to leave a player behind.”

When asked to elaborate on how excluding players from matchday squads can negatively impact them, Arteta explained, “We have a unique role that allows us to transform someone’s life and career, which is immensely rewarding. However, every week, we must inform someone that they will not be participating. They are not even allowed to travel with the team.

“Can you name another profession where you would do this? I cannot simply tell two chefs in a kitchen that they will not be cooking today and to just watch from the sidelines. It is a difficult task. A player who wants to feel part of the team needs to be present; they need to travel and feel that they have a chance to contribute.

“When you take that opportunity away, it suggests to the player that they are not good enough. At the end of the day, the decision is clear: I have chosen another 20 players over you, and that is a concern for me.”

Arsenal currently sit at the top of the Premier League, having played 36 matches this season and competing for honors across four competitions. They will face Leeds United at Elland Road in the league on Saturday.

Arteta believes that larger squads are necessary due to the increasing demands of the game. “Restricting squad sizes does not make sense, in my opinion. We need to expand this limit, allowing everyone to be part of the process. This will enable us to make informed decisions based on the game, better manage player minutes, and address psychological and emotional factors, ultimately enhancing our ability to influence the game. This approach is beneficial for everyone involved.”