Arteta declines to comment on Manchester City case as Arsenal assess injury doubts

Mikel Arteta says he will not comment further on the ongoing case involving Manchester City until the legal process has been completed.

Arsenal are preparing to face Leeds United in the sixth round of the Premier League at home on Saturday, with Arteta’s side second in the table on 12 points, behind Manchester City.

“I trust the club now and in the future, and always; I have complete confidence in the club,” Arsenal manager Arteta said at his pre-match news conference.

“I completely understand the question, but I will respect the process. The matter is still being considered and has not been decided because there is an appeal.

“My position, and the club’s position, is not to make any further comment until the case has been resolved.”

Arteta worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City for three seasons between 2016 and 2019.

The Spaniard also discussed his new Arsenal contract, which keeps him at the club until the summer of 2030. He has been in charge since 2019.

“My family are extremely grateful for this wonderful opportunity to continue,” he said. “I said from the beginning that the club and I were aiming for the same thing, but I liked the way everything developed.

“I think it is hugely important. I have always said that when you are negotiating and planning for the future, the most important moment comes at the end, when you are about to sign the contract and look around the room.

“You see the smiles on people’s faces and the excitement in their eyes.”

Arteta then provided an update on several players whose availability for Saturday remains uncertain.

“Yes, we have to be careful with Declan Rice’s situation,” he said. “He has had some physical issues since returning from the World Cup. Hopefully he will be available to play tomorrow, as will some of the other players whose fitness is in doubt.”

Kai Havertz has returned from international duty with Germany after suffering a muscle injury.

“In Kai’s case, he had a muscle injury, so the Germany national team sent him back to us, which is a normal procedure,” Arteta said.

“Ezri Konsa is also dealing with some physical problems, and we have communicated well with the England camp about the situation.”

Tzolis will miss the match after sustaining a muscle injury that is expected to keep him out for several weeks.

“As for Tzolis, he has a muscle injury which will rule him out for several weeks, so he is not available,” Arteta added.