Arteta Dismisses Idea of Rotating Players for Champions League

Arsenal have no intention of altering their squad or resting players ahead of the midweek Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace, as they prepare for next week’s Champions League semi-final against Paris St Germain, according to manager Mikel Arteta on Tuesday.

Currently sitting second in the league with 66 points, Arsenal appear to be out of contention for the Premier League title, with leaders Liverpool needing just one more victory to clinch the championship.

Having been eliminated from the FA Cup and the League Cup earlier in the semi-finals, the Champions League remains their sole opportunity to secure silverware this season. However, Arteta ruled out the idea of resting key players for the match against Palace, who are currently in 12th place.

“We can’t think like that. When the players are fit, available, and eager to play, they should be on the pitch,” he told reporters prior to Wednesday’s match at the Emirates Stadium.

“They perform best when they’re allowed to play, maintaining consistency in their performances. Physically and mentally, they feelgood. The rhythm is crucial for their success.”

“If they’re unavailable, that’s a different matter. If they’re not in the right condition to perform, we won’t play them. But if they’re fit, they’ll play.”

A loss to Palace would see Liverpool crowned champions, and the Merseyside club’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, mentioned that the entire squad might come together to watch the match.

When asked if this provided extra motivation for Arsenal to secure a win, Arteta replied: “Our motivation is to secure a victory and continue our current run; beyond that, we cannot control.”

The Spaniard also offered an update on Bukayo Saka, who suffered a heavy challenge from Leif Davis during a 4-0 win over Ipswich Town on Sunday, which left the England international limping and ultimately led to his substitution.

“We’ll need to see how he responds after training, but it doesn’t seem too serious. I believe he has a strong chance of playing tomorrow,” said Arteta.

“(Riccardo Calafiori) is out, and (Jorginho) will also be unavailable. Sadly, Jorginho will be out for a few weeks.”

After the Palace fixture, Arsenal will enjoy a six-day break before hosting PSG in the first leg of their Champions League tie on April 29.

“We have some time. Our options are limited, especially considering the players’ fitness and how long they can play,” Arteta explained. “It’s beneficial to have a little break as our squad is quite small.”