Has Arteta put Guendouzi into exile?

Matteo Guendouzi. Just a year ago the young French midfielder was one of my favorite players on the Arsenal squad. His unlimited energy and youthful enthusiasm for the game was fun to watch. He was all over the pitch, creating, causing chaos for the opponent, and constantly being involved in the match.

Now things have changed and the glow has faded from this once shiny object.

What happened? It’s hard to say, but from the outside looking in I think the young mam have maybe grown too big for his pants, or maybe his paycheck has become more important to him than working to earn it.

First, there was the bust-up with Arteta in Dubai following a training session, then the confrontation on the pitch following the recent defeat at Brighton. Arteta left Guendouzi at home in London when the Gunners travelled to Southampton on Thursday, and now reports are circulating the Frenchman wants to leave Arsenal, and maybe Arteta doesn’t care. The boss has said he only wants players who want to be “on the boat” with him. I think Matteo has another boat in mind. Recent reports indicate Manchester United has shown some interest in Guendouzi.

According to the Guardian, “Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has refused to guarantee Matteo Guendouzi will be at the club next season after reports the French midfielder has asked to leave.”

One of the manager’s jobs is to control the egos and attitudes of his players, both the young ones and the more senior ones. It has to be a very difficult balancing act to maneuver, however, once a player crosses the line the boss has to step in and stop it cold before a bigger problem ensues. Even if it means putting the player into exile, either temporarily or permanently.

It will be interesting to see if Guendouzi is on the squad tomorrow at Sheffield United. If the reports are true, and the young man truly wants to leave, he will be at home watching the game on TV just like the rest of us.

Cheers, stay healthy and safe!

Gunner1953