Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim reacts during the match against Everton. — Reuters
Ruben Amorim has already left his mark on Manchester United, according to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta ahead of their Premier League clash on Wednesday. Arsenal, riding high after scoring 13 goals in their last three games, including a 5-1 thrashing of Amorim's former team Sporting in the Champions League, will host United. United dominated Everton 4-0 in Amorim's first Premier League home game over the weekend and will be a formidable opponent for Arteta's second-placed side, which trails leaders Liverpool by nine points.
"You can already see his influence in how he wants the team to play. He's very clear about his intentions, and I think he's been very successful with Sporting," Arteta told reporters on Tuesday. "It's impressive what he achieved there, especially the way he did it and how his teams played. He brings energy, new ideas, and that's always a positive." Arteta emphasized the importance of focusing on their own performance, noting Arsenal's good form and momentum. "It will be a big and exciting match against United."
While Liverpool is the clear favorite for the title, Arteta believes several top clubs, including United, have the potential to close the gap on Arne Slot's side. "We're still early in the season. Any team that can string together consecutive wins has a chance. I think anything is possible," Arteta said. Arsenal faces injury concerns with Thomas Partey, Mikel Merino, Riccardo Calafiori, and Gabriel ahead of Wednesday's game.
"We'll have a meeting this afternoon. We've had a training session, monitored some players, and kept a few away from certain activities. After the meeting, we'll decide who is fit and available and who will start," he said. Forward Bukayo Saka has been crucial to Arsenal's recent success, scoring five league goals and providing 10 assists this season. Arteta believes Saka has reached a new level in his game.
"In terms of numbers, yes. We see Bukayo improving every year. He's more consistent and can only get better. He's hungry for more," Arteta said. "His goals and assists are incredible at this stage of the season."
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
