Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta detailed his managerial evolution and youth development philosophy ahead of his seventh season, emphasizing adaptation and the integration of academy talents like 15-year-old Max Dowman into first-team training.
Speaking to The Athletic after being named Under Armour\'s global ambassador, Arteta stressed the need for constant managerial adaptation. He highlighted his increased focus on individual player conversations and managing squad rotation demands.
Arteta has elevated several academy products recently, including Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, and remarkably, 15-year-old Dowman to first-team consideration. The Spaniard called overseeing youth transitions \"a massive gift and a big responsibility\" that requires careful management.
Arsenal\'s academy at Hale End remains central to squad planning discussions with sporting director Andrea Berta. The club prioritizes internal solutions before pursuing external recruitment.
The manager praised his senior players for creating a supportive environment for young talents. He credited the experienced squad members with being \"really caring\" and \"genuinely happy\" to see academy graduates succeed.
Arteta acknowledged the challenges of squad rotation with high-profile players competing for positions. He emphasized that sharing playing time is essential in modern football, though he recognizes the emotional difficulty players face.
\"The manager that the boys needed three years ago is a different manager than they need today. The team has grown so much in every sense of that word that they need somebody else,\" Arteta told The Athletic.
The 42-year-old revealed he uses three key questions when evaluating players: \"Can he do it? Does he know how to do it? And does he want to do it?\" He explained that willingness to learn and adapt is crucial for long-term success.
Arteta called for evolving regulations regarding young player development and movement. He believes current Premier League restrictions on teenager playing time may hinder talent development compared to other leagues globally.
\"As the game has evolved, the law has to evolve. It is also in relation to the talent that we can recruit all over the world,\" Arteta said.
The manager drew on his parental perspective when working with teenage prospects, noting his eldest son is just one year older than Dowman. He emphasized the importance of family support systems in developing young players.
Arsenal begins the new season with strengthened squad depth across all positions. Arteta expressed satisfaction with his players\' pre-season fitness levels and mental preparation for the upcoming campaign.
\"I look at their eyes and their bodies, and they tell you straight away how much they want it. They looked in great shape,\" Arteta said of his squad\'s condition.