Arteta Explains Arsenal’s Chaos Training Ahead of New Season
Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal intentionally disrupted parts of their pre-season programme, using delayed meals, altered travel and uncomfortable dressing-room conditions to train players to handle chaos without panic.
Arteta builds disruption into Arsenal preparation
Arsenal’s head coach said the exercise is designed to remove surprise when genuine problems hit on a matchday. The Gunners have previously used unusual methods, including blasting Liverpool’s anthem in training before an Anfield trip and employing a pickpocket at a squad dinner to test awareness.
This summer, Arteta’s staff also changed practical details around the group. Meals and transport were deliberately held up, routes were switched, dressing rooms were made hotter and less comfortable, and players were given fewer beds.
“We have done many things,” Arteta said, explaining that the aim is to prepare the squad for changing circumstances rather than allow stress to take over when plans are disrupted.
Naples delay became a live test
The approach was put into practice before Arsenal’s Champions League win in Naples on Tuesday. Technical problems across London airports delayed the team’s flight to Italy, forcing an adjustment to the planned routine.
Arsenal did not allow the travel issue to derail their preparation and secured a deserved 1-0 victory at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Arteta said such moments are exactly why he creates controlled difficulties before the season. A late arrival at the ground, a missed flight, a delayed train or heavy traffic can all change a team’s schedule, but he wants his players and staff to react rather than complain.
- Arsenal used pre-season to introduce planned disruptions around travel, recovery and facilities.
- Airport technical issues in London delayed the squad’s journey to Naples on Tuesday.
- The players adapted their schedule and beat Napoli 1-0 in the Champions League.
- Arsenal now travel to Sunderland for Saturday’s Premier League fixture.
Adaptability is the message
Arteta urged players to make use of unexpected downtime instead of treating it as an excuse. Extra hours on a plane can be used to rest, spend time together or prepare differently, he argued.
The manager believes rehearsing those situations reduces the emotional impact when disruption arrives for real. Arsenal have won each of their first five matches of the season, and their response in Italy offered another indication of a squad comfortable with altered plans.
- Arteta has used deliberate logistical and environmental challenges in pre-season.
- London airport issues delayed Arsenal’s Champions League trip to Italy.
- The Gunners overcame the setback to win 1-0 in Naples.
- Arsenal’s next match is away to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
