Arsenal Evaluates Pre-Match Warm-Up Routines After Recent Injuries

omidbasir- Mikel Arteta has announced that Arsenal is currently evaluating their warm-up routines in light of several players experiencing fitness issues just before matches. The Gunners’ manager is even contemplating the complete removal of this pre-match tradition.

Riccardo Calafiori was the latest player to face such an issue, being substituted shortly before kick-off in the FA Cup fourth-round victory over Wigan. Earlier in the season, Calafiori had also been sidelined for a month due to a muscular injury sustained during warm-up against Brighton.

Additionally, Bukayo Saka did not take the field as scheduled against Leeds United earlier this month, while William Saliba felt an injury during the match against Liverpool in August, yet started the game before being forced off after just five minutes.

When asked if he was investigating the situation, Arteta responded, “Yes, absolutely. The incidents have been quite varied. The first was Willy rolling his ankle against Liverpool, followed by two similar incidents with Riccy during warm-up. Bukayo’s case was particularly unexpected since he had rested midweek and showed no signs of injury before Leeds. It’s unusual; in the six years I’ve been here, it has happened only once or twice, but now it has occurred four times.”

He further expressed that the recent occurrences have heightened his concern leading up to matches. “I personally feel more anxious. When I hear someone at my door, I instinctively think, ‘No, please,’ as it indicates a tricky moment ahead. Replacing Riccy with Bukayo requires significant adjustments to our game plan, and such changes must be made within a two-minute window.”

Arteta elaborated on the adaptability of their warm-up routines, stating, “As a former player, I understand the importance of specific routines as they signal to the body that the match is imminent. Altering these can be challenging. It’s worth examining what would happen if we skipped warm-ups altogether. Given that players often sit for about 15 minutes at half-time, perhaps we should reconsider the approach.”

Looking ahead, Calafiori and Ben White are anticipated to be available for the upcoming Premier League trip to Wolves. Kai Havertz may also return to fitness in time, while Martin Ødegaard is expected to miss out, although Arteta remains optimistic that the midfielder will be fit for the match against Tottenham on Sunday.