October 4th 2024.
Mikel Arteta has a strong message for Aaron Ramsdale as the former Arsenal goalkeeper prepares to return to the Emirates on Saturday. Arteta has hinted that he may use some clever tactics to throw off Ramsdale, who left the club this summer in search of more playing time at Southampton.
It's no secret that Ramsdale was displaced as Arsenal's first-choice keeper by David Raya, and now he's looking to prove himself against his former team. With his insider knowledge of Arteta's methods, Ramsdale hopes to lead his new club to their first Premier League win of the season.
However, Arteta is not one to be underestimated. He has a secret weapon in set-piece guru Nicolas Jover, who has turned Arsenal into the most feared team in the league when it comes to dead-ball situations. But Arteta knows that Ramsdale may have a few tricks up his sleeve, so they may have to switch things up to keep him on his toes.
"We may tell him that we will change our set-piece plans, but then actually stick to the same strategy," Arteta revealed when asked if they would alter their tactics because of Ramsdale. "So there may be some mind games involved. I'm sure they have discussed it as well. It's not the first time we've played against a former player, so it's natural for this to happen. We just have to stay focused and continue to do our thing."
Ramsdale's departure from Arsenal was no surprise, as he lost his starting spot to Raya. However, Arteta made it clear that he valued the 26-year-old as a backup for Raya and understood his desire to move on to a new challenge.
"Of course, it was his decision to take another step in his career," Arteta commented. "We were happy with him, and we wanted that competition and high level of play in the position. But we wish him all the best, and he's doing really well."
As for Ramsdale, he holds no ill will towards Raya or Arsenal. In fact, Raya was the first person to congratulate him after his move to Southampton. "He was great and supportive," Ramsdale shared. "He's been making some big saves this season and has really kept them in some games. I just hope he doesn't have one of those games on Saturday."
It's clear that there is mutual respect between Ramsdale and his former teammates, but on the field, it will be a battle for three points. As the game approaches, both teams are preparing their strategies and tactics, but only time will tell which team will come out on top. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Arsenal and their upcoming matches.
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