EPL: ‘It can affect players mentally’ – Aguero warns Arteta over Arsenal decision

Former Manchester City forward, Sergio Aguero has warned Mikel Arteta over Arsenal’s approach to squad rotation this season.

He said such practices could negatively affect players’ morale if implemented without proper consideration.

Arteta has implemented squad rotation as Arsenal pursues success across multiple competitions, with the UEFA Champions League positioned as a primary objective this season.

Aguero acknowledged that the strategy is common among top managers, including Pep Guardiola during his tenure at Manchester City, but emphasised that regular changes to the lineup can adversely affect players who are performing at their peak.

Aguero stated, according to Football London: “There’s nothing wrong with what Arsenal are proposing [rotating to prioritise the Champions League]. Pep also tends to make those changes.

“Certain players feature in Premier League matches while others participate in Champions League fixtures. I do not consider this a detrimental strategy. Mikel employs a methodology that closely mirrors Pep’s tactical philosophy.

“The problem is that sometimes players are in good form, and making those changes can affect them mentally. But if it’s managed properly, it’s a perfectly reasonable approach.”

Mikel Arteta is demonstrably maximising Arsenal’s potential this season. The club began their campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield, subsequently winning all four of their opening Premier League matches.

The North London club also began their Champions League campaign successfully with a 1-0 victory over Napoli in their opening match and advanced to the fourth round of the EFL Cup following a 4-2 victory over Ipswich Town in the preceding round.

The Gunners suffered a 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in their Premier League encounter at the American Express Stadium on Saturday, September 19.