Mikel Arteta says he has been pleased that Arsenal have managed to conduct their transfer business early in the window.
Arsenal’s key additions have arrived in time for their Premier League opener with Nottingham Forest this weekend, with each of Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber having joined the club on their pre-season tour.
Arteta is hopeful the early nature of the additions can help Arsenal’s summer signings to settle, as the Gunners look to challenge for the Premier League title this season.
“We had the intention to do it and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” Arteta told his pre-match press conference.
“We try our best and we need to focus. It helps us to focus and maximise the resources we have. I think it helps players to settle into the environment.
“It helps to know what you’re going to look like for the season, so I think it’s very positive for us.”
Arsenal warmed up for the Premier League season by beating Manchester City on penalties in the Community Shield last weekend and Arteta thinks that victory can provide his side with an ‘energy booste’r.
“Winning is the best energy booster that exists,” he said.
“Everyone was so happy and it raises the trust level of what we can do. But we must understand that we can still improve and the Nottingham Forest game is another challenge with a different context.”
