Sport nationMikel Arteta Issues Warning to Nottingham Forest Ahead of Crucial Clash
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent a stern warning to Nottingham Forest ahead of their highly anticipated encounter, praising the opposition’s remarkable season while also highlighting the return of a key player.
Arteta’s side is set to face Forest at the City Ground, with the hosts looking to bounce back from a disappointing 4-3 defeat to Newcastle. The Arsenal boss, however, is wary of the threat posed by Forest, who have been one of the surprise packages of the season.
“Unbelievable, what they’re doing and what he’s done,” Arteta said, referring to Forest’s impressive campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo. “Not only there, but what he did at Wolves as well, it was incredible, to be fair. So huge pride for him, the coaching staff, the players, and the club as well for what they have generated after coming into the Premier League, it’s a remarkable story, so well done to them.”
Arteta’s comments come as Forest looks to secure a top-four finish, with the Reds currently occupying third spot in the table. The Arsenal boss, however, is confident that his side can spoil the party, particularly with the return of Ben White.
The English right-back has been out injured since November but made his first appearance of the year in Saturday’s defeat to West Ham. Arteta is thrilled to have White back in the fold, hailing his impact on the team.
“He’s a player that has given us something very, very special, especially in that right unit,” Arteta said. “We haven’t played with that right unit at all this season with him, Bukayo [Saka] and Martin [Odegaard] as well – a unit that has played so much football together. It’s great to have him back, it’s more options, and his energy, the way he is around the team, and what he generates, he’s certainly been missed.”
With White’s return, Arteta will be hoping to reignite the spark that has been missing from his side in recent weeks. The Arsenal boss is well aware of the threat posed by Forest, but he is confident that his team can come out on top.
The encounter promises to be an exciting one, with both teams looking to secure a vital three points. Arteta’s warning to Forest is clear: Arsenal is ready for the challenge, and they will not be underestimated.
Sport nation
Amina Umar
