Mikel Arteta's remarks before the crucial Liverpool match surprisingly hinted at several implications related to Manchester United's decision to sack Ruben Amorim.
Mikel Arteta appeared before the media as Arsenal prepared for a key Premier League clash against Liverpool. Following important wins over Aston Villa and Bournemouth, combined with Manchester City's slip-up, the "Gunners" hold several advantages in the title race. The press conference atmosphere was thus a mix of confidence and caution.
Regarding squad fitness, Arteta confirmed that Arsenal welcomed back many key players, although there remain uncertainties about Kai Havertz, Riccardo Calafiori, and Cristhian Mosquera. The Spanish coach also recalled the early-season defeat at Anfield, viewing it as strong motivation for the rematch. At the end of the press conference, Arteta was unexpectedly asked about MU's decision to dismiss Ruben Amorim.
In response to this question, Arteta was very measured but thoughtful. He shared: “I can only speak from my own experience, and obviously, it is always very sad to see a colleague lose their job.” According to Arteta, coaching is a tough profession where no one is immune to pressure from results.
The Arsenal manager emphasized that survival depends on more than just belief. “You need support from the owners, the coaching staff, and the players. But ultimately, you must win a lot of matches to keep your position,” Arteta added. This statement was seen as an indirect commentary on Amorim's situation at Old Trafford.
According to insider information, MU decided to dismiss Amorim after relations between him and the management deteriorated. CEO Omar Berrada and Sporting Director Jason Wilcox conducted a thorough assessment, highlighting disagreements about Amorim seeing himself more as a “manager” rather than a pure coach.
Compared to Arteta's journey at Arsenal, the contrast is clear. The Spanish coach went through a difficult 12-18 month period but still received patience from the club. That backing, combined with gradually improving results on the pitch, helped Arteta stay, something Amorim did not have at MU.