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Arsenal Boss Gets Creative with Training
OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO has shared some insights into Mikel Arteta’s latest unconventional approach to team bonding at Arsenal. The Gunners’ manager is known for his unique methods, and this latest exercise is no exception.
From Motivational Anthems to Pickpocket Lessons
Arteta has previously left fans scratching their heads with his creative strategies. In 2022, he played “You’ll Never Walk Alone” during training ahead of a match against Liverpool, and more recently, he hired pickpockets to steal his players’ belongings during a dinner. This was all part of a lesson about staying vigilant.
Introducing ‘Collaboretition’
Dubbed the “David Brent of the Premier League,” Arteta also introduced a new term: “collaboretition,” a blend of collaboration and competition, to motivate his squad.
A Freestyler to the Rescue
In his latest team-bonding exercise, Arteta brought in a professional football freestyler to challenge one of his players. Zinchenko recounted the surprising event, saying, “We stayed at the same hotel before a match, and we knew all the waiters. But there was a new guy that day.” Arteta decided to inject some energy into the group by setting up a freestyle challenge.
Unexpected Turns and Laughter
As the freestyling began, the set-piece coach pretended to injure himself, leading to the surprise appearance of the new waiter, who turned out to be a skilled freestyler. “He destroyed me with his tricks and all of us were in deep shock,” Zinchenko admitted. However, the exercise ended on a high note, with the team laughing and feeling energised before their game.
Injury Woes for Zinchenko
Despite his enthusiasm for Arteta’s methods, Zinchenko has faced challenges this season, having made only two appearances due to a calf injury. He was back on the bench for the recent defeat at Bournemouth and may be in line to play against his former club, Shakhtar Donetsk, this evening.
