The Arteta Era officially begins for Arsenal

Freddie Lungberg’s time as Arsenal’s interim manager is now over, after finishing today with a 0-0 draw against Everton.
For all of us Gooners, the beginning of the Arteta era hasn’t come too soon. That’s not a slight on Freddie, however, this club needs direction, stability, a kick in the backside, and a plan to move forward. An interim manager just doesn’t have the time or the support to make that happen.

So, the Arteta era begins officially tomorrow. My guess is the new boss’s wheels are all ready spinning with thoughts, ideas, and of course, the reality of the big ahead of him. He has now seen Arsenal up close and personal twice. Once on the bench when Manchester City came to the Emirates, and today from the stands. It was interesting that every time the TV coverage showed Arteta in the stands, he never smiled, or showed any moment of positivity. I pray that changes very soon when he’s on the touch line.

Today, Freddie went with a young team. Of course, injuries created a few openings, however, the interim boss decided to give Smith-Rowe, Nelson, Saka, and Martinelli starting assignments. For the most part they did okay, but were unable collectively to produce many offensive chances for Aubameyang up front. This was a midfield game that produced a very average 0-0 draw.

But, enough of that. It’s now time to look ahead.

Here’s what I think should be on Arteta’s immediate “to do” list…
1) Evaluate all of the senior players. Not for their playing abilities, but for their commitment to the club.
2) Determine who wants to really stay, and who wants to really go. No “I’m not sure” BS allowed.
3) Then determine who the he wants to really stay, and really go.
4) Draw up a list of potential players to pursue in the January transfer window.
5) Get to work on playing attacking-minded football…the Arsenal way!
6) At the same time, figure out how to make our defense better and less vulnerable to mistakes at critical moments.
7) Work on set pieces at both ends of the pitch. This has to improve.
8) Keep developing the youngsters and give them plenty of opportunities to play.

Of course, somewhere during the next few days he needs to assemble a backroom staff, too.

There is no question Mike Arteta has a busy schedule ahead. The games come fast and furious, plus it’s the holidays, he has a wife and family to consider, plus a move to London as well. To say he has a full plate is an understatement.

As stated previously, I have thrown my full support behind Mikel Arteta. I hope all Gooners everywhere do too!

Cheers. Gunner1953