Arteta Stays Silent on Eze Move as Arsenal Prepare for Leeds Test

Gunners boss reveals Havertz injury concern and emphasizes the importance of signing players who “feel something special” for the club.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media on Friday ahead of his side’s Premier League clash with Leeds United this weekend, skillfully navigating questions about transfers, injuries, and the culture he’s building at the Emirates.

The Spanish coach remained tight-lipped when asked about Eberechi Eze, the Crystal Palace playmaker who is expected to undergo a medical with Arsenal. “Nothing to comment,” Arteta stated. “I can never talk about any player that is not part of our group yet.”

Arteta did, however, confirm an injury to attacker Kai Havertz—understood to be a key reason behind the push for Eze. “We don’t really know the extent of it yet,” he admitted. “We need more tests. I would love to have him available for tomorrow, but he is not fit.”

When discussing transfer targets like Eze and new signing Viktor Gyokeres, Arteta emphasized that desire and emotional connection are just as important as talent. “That’s the number one—that they want to be with us and feel something special to come to us,” he explained. “It brings a different edge, a different will.”

He also praised the impact of new sporting director Andrea Berta, calling him “thorough, determined, and professional,” and confirmed that Gyokeres is “ready to go” against Leeds.