EPL: ‘It can affect players mentally’ – Aguero warns Arteta over Arsenal decision
Sergio Aguero, the former Manchester City forward, has issued a caution to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta regarding the club’s squad rotation strategy this season. Aguero expressed concern that a lack of careful consideration in implementing such practices could negatively impact player morale.
Arteta has adopted a rotation strategy as Arsenal aims for success in multiple competitions, with particular focus on the UEFA Champions League. While Aguero acknowledged that rotation is a common tactic among top managers—including Pep Guardiola, his former boss at Manchester City—he warned that frequent lineup changes can affect players who are in strong form.
In comments reported by Football London, Aguero remarked, “There’s nothing wrong with what Arsenal are proposing [prioritizing the Champions League]. Pep also tends to make those changes.” He noted that players often participate in different competitions, and he does not view rotation as inherently detrimental. He added, “Mikel employs a methodology that closely mirrors Pep’s tactical philosophy.”
However, he cautioned that altering the lineup too often could have a mental toll on players who are performing well. “If it’s managed properly, it’s a perfectly reasonable approach,” he concluded.
Under Arteta’s leadership, Arsenal has shown strong potential this season. The club began with a noteworthy 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield and has won all four of its opening Premier League matches. Additionally, Arsenal kicked off its Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win against Napoli and progressed to the fourth round of the EFL Cup after defeating Ipswich Town 4-2.
Despite their promising start, Arsenal faced a setback with a 3-0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion in their Premier League match on September 19.
