Arteta: Pre-Season Drills Key to Arsenal's Calm During UCL Napoli Flight Delay

Mikel Arteta, the manager for Arsenal, disclosed that specific disruptions incorporated into the team’s pre-season training were instrumental in maintaining player composure when their flight to Italy faced delays before their UEFA Champions League encounter with Napoli. On Wednesday, the reigning Premier League champions encountered air traffic control problems en route to Italy, resulting in an approximate three-hour delay in their arrival. Nevertheless, Arteta confirmed that this unexpected situation failed to perturb his squad, attributing it to their prior exposure to similar challenges intentionally designed during their pre-season preparations.

During a news conference on Friday, prior to Arsenal's Premier League fixture against Sunderland, Arteta commented on his approach, stating, “I love those challenges, I try to create them in pre-season.” He added, “So when they happen, we have already experienced them and we are ready,” as reported by BBC Sport. The Arsenal boss elaborated that he had previously altered the team’s standard routines by postponing training sessions, mealtimes, and travel arrangements, alongside utilizing varied routes to match venues.

He detailed his methods, saying, “Get to the stadium very late, change the routine so the players have to do something else.” Arteta clarified that the primary goal was to prevent unforeseen issues like flight cancellations, train delays, or significant traffic from inducing anxiety among his team and support staff. “When it happens, adapt to it,” he urged, suggesting ways to utilize such time, “We have two or three hours on the plane – can we use it? Play together, spend some time together, sleep.” He firmly advised against negativity, stating, “But don’t complain or use it as an excuse because it’s not helpful at all.”

Furthermore, he mentioned that Arsenal’s preparations included intentionally making dressing rooms warmer and less comfortable to accustom players to diverse environments. Arteta believes these types of drills mitigate the stress and shock typically linked with unforeseen matchday interruptions.

The Spanish tactician is renowned for his unique motivational and preparatory techniques. He once presented a light bulb in the dressing room, urging his players to exude energy and “shine”. Another instance involved him employing professional pickpockets at a team dinner to pilfer players' phones and wallets, an exercise aimed at fostering vigilance. In 2023, a dog named Win was introduced to Arsenal’s training facility by Arteta to uplift morale and solidify the team's familial bond. The manager has also endorsed other similar team-building efforts, including a reported fire lit at the club’s training ground ahead of a Champions League fixture against Sporting in April. Arteta maintains that these unconventional practices are vital for Arsenal to cultivate the resilience and adaptability necessary to navigate the unpredictable landscape of top-tier football.