BREAKING: Someone was behind it and not me”, Pep Guardiola finally reveals the real Reason why Arteta was arrested at Dubai training camp
BREAKING: Someone was behind it and not me”, Pep Guardiola finally reveals the real Reason why Arteta was arrested at Dubai training camp
Arsenal have enjoyed a successful second day in Dubai for their warm weather training camp.
The Gunners flew out to the Middle East on Thursday, with Mikel Arteta hoping to use the break to reset his side’s season. Arteta’s side currently sit second in the Premier League, six points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
It means they face a crucial second-half of the season, with a Champions League last 16 tie also ahead of them. A similar trip to Dubai last year helped to transform the Gunners’ season
And Arteta has been putting his squad through their paces once again on Saturday, with plenty of ball work in the soaring temperatures. Here, Mirror Football picks out five key talking points from a second day of action.
Ben White boost
Ben White has been ruled out since November after undergoing surgery on his knee. He last played in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea, though Jurrien Timber has cemented his place as the first-choice right-back in his absence.
Even so, it will be a welcome boost for Arteta that White was a participant in training on Saturday. As well as running drills, the Englishman could be seen striking the ball in a clear sign he is nearing a return.
White was also involved in Arteta’s teamtalk to his side and was spotted hugging Gunners youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. It appears the defender will be back available when Arsenal return to action.
Arteta turns to the kids
While Arteta has been focused on his senior players, he has also given academy stars Max Dowman and Jack Porter the chance to shine. He added the duo, aged 15 and 16 respectively, to the travelling squad following their impressive performances.
Dowman was spotted taking on Kieran Tierney in one drill, having controlled a high ball under Arteta’s close eye in another. He then pulled off a brilliant trick by crossing one foot under the other to bring down another pass.
Porter meanwhile was put through his paces in goal, making a number of saves. Though the young keeper was also bizarrely pictured wearing tracksuit bottoms in the 27 degree heat.
Almunia returns
It has been 14 years since Manuel Almunia last played for Arsenal, but he was on hand to pass on some advice to the Gunners’ current crop of keepers. The Spaniard made more than 150 appearances during a seven-year spell at the Emirates Stadium
