Mikel Arteta revealed that Arsenal were prepared for their delayed midweek Champions League flight because he had intentionally introduced disruptions to the team’s schedule during pre-season.
Air traffic control problems affected the Premier League champions as they travelled to Italy for Wednesday’s match against Napoli.
The squad reached its destination three hours later than planned, but Arteta said his preparation methods helped the players cope with the delay.
Speaking at Friday’s press conference before Saturday’s Premier League visit to Sunderland at 20:00 BST, Arteta said he enjoys creating similar challenges during pre-season.
He explained that experiencing such situations in advance allows the team to respond calmly when they occur.
Arteta said he deliberately changes routines, including arriving late at stadiums and asking players to adjust their plans. His aim is to prevent the squad and staff from panicking when flights are cancelled, trains are delayed or heavy traffic causes disruption.
He added that unexpected time on a plane can still be used productively, whether the players choose to play games together, socialize or rest.
The manager stressed that complaining or treating disruption as an excuse provides no benefit.
His approach also involves postponing meals or transport, choosing alternative routes to stadiums and making the dressing room warmer and less comfortable.
According to Arteta, these exercises reduce stress and prevent players from being caught off guard when unexpected problems arise on matchdays.
This is not the first time the Spanish coach has adopted unconventional techniques to prepare his squad.
He previously took a light bulb into the dressing room as a symbol while encouraging his players to bring energy and stand out.
On another occasion, professional pickpockets were invited to a team dinner to secretly remove phones and wallets, teaching the players an unusual lesson about remaining vigilant.
In 2023, Arteta introduced a dog called Win at the training facility to improve morale and reinforce the idea that the squad operates as a family.
He is also comfortable with other members of the team applying similar ideas. In April, a fire was started at the club’s training ground ahead of a Champions League home match against Sporting.
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