After our recent goalless encounter with Nottingham Forest, Mikel Arteta addressed the media to discuss various aspects of the match.

The manager elaborated on several topics, including player Riccardo Calafiori, set-piece strategy, our standing in the league, and more.

Here is a complete transcript…

On his reflections about the match…

It’s quite disappointing not to secure a victory. The energy and determination displayed today differed significantly from our last performance. We explored various strategies, controlling much of the game, except for a brief period in the second half when they had a few dangerous opportunities from set pieces. Overall, we created numerous chances, but we struggled with the final touch, lacking precision in our deliveries and shots on target, which ultimately impacted our efficiency.

On the challenge of developing a scoring system…

We are actively working on optimizing the quality within our squad to enhance creativity and exploit our players’ varied strengths. It’s a matter of adapting our approach to maximize their potential, even if it doesn’t involve typical goal-scoring moments.

On our set-piece effectiveness…

While we had at least two significant chances from set pieces, we were unable to convert these opportunities. Given the challenges posed by a team using a deep defensive block, it’s crucial we capitalize on set pieces, especially as we’ve struggled with offensive threats lately. Unfortunately, we failed to break through today, which is disappointing.

On addressing our goal-scoring challenges…

We have a day or two to strategize ahead of the PSV match, looking for effective solutions against teams that defend deeply. If the opposition opens up or shows greater quality, we need to adapt, but right now, it’s clear that we’re missing that final piece to unlock the scoring potential.

On the substitution of Riccardo Calafiori…

I had to substitute him due to a yellow card received in the second minute. He faced a couple of challenging moments against Hudson-Odoi, and it was important to maintain our full strength on the pitch.

On Ethan Nwaneri’s substitution…

He started cramping by halftime, and we pushed him as far as we could. However, we couldn’t risk continuing with a player in that condition.

On the potential involvement of more academy players in future matches…

We will consider that option seriously. There remain several avenues we can explore, particularly in finding solutions to enhance our attacking play, including improving final passes and the quality of our deliveries. Our academy players deserve our support as we work through these challenges.

On maintaining morale amidst a widening gap with Liverpool…

It’s essential to focus on our performance; that’s been the case for weeks. The only aspect we can control is how we respond, and while today’s match resulted in dropping two points—which is painful—we must regroup as we approach the Champions League.

On Raheem Sterling’s performance…

I prefer not to comment on individual players, as everyone is certainly giving their best effort.

On the altercation between Declan Rice and Gabriel…

I’m not aware of the specifics; I didn’t witness it as I was addressing the referees and our supporters.

On whether frustration can be beneficial…

It’s likely that the players are pushing one another to perform better, but I can’t comment on the specifics of their conversation.

On the return of players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli…

At this time, I’m uncertain.

On their potential availability for the Fulham match after the international break…

I believe there’s a good chance, but we need to monitor their progress over the coming weeks to ensure a proper reintegration after their long absence. They are improving, but still have some distance to cover.

On not rushing their recovery…

We’ll meet tomorrow to assess their status, particularly Gabriel, who may return to action sooner than Bukayo. However, we’ll need to see how they develop in the next week or ten days before making any decisions.