How the Arsenal first team squad prefer to unwind and bond when together between matches has now been revealed.
The Arsenal players share a lot of downtime together. The squad are often holed up in hotels, or grouped together in transport for away trips.
These occasions offer an opportunity for the group to gel further and strengthen the bond between them. This is something that Mikel Arteta will actively encourage, as he values the importance of dressing room harmony and togetherness.
Instilling a close, familial atmosphere at the club has been a huge part of the Spanish coach’s impact since he took the helm in December 2019.
Hale End academy graduate Reiss Nelson has credited Arteta with having created something special at Arsenal in this regard.
The Gunners also made use of their mid-season trip to Dubai to engage in group activities.
How Arsenal stars relax together
A report in The Times has now revealed how a handful of individuals in the squad like to relax in one another’s company.
Kai Havertz takes charge of sessions of Mario Kart, played on a Nintendo Switch console on the team bus. The German routinely plays as Luigi, and is regularly amused by how ‘everyone fumes with each other,’ as the racing game brings out the competitive edge in his teammates.
Meanwhile, Jorginho is often mocked by his colleagues for having the hobby “of a grandmother,” as he enjoys watching Brazilian soap opera Family Ties in the team hotel.
Games are also a common theme in the Gunners’ downtime. Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko often instigate games of Uno. Whilst the board game Ludo is a favourite amongst the Brazilian contingent of the squad.
Mikel Arteta will be mindful of Arsenal squad mood when it comes to transfers
The importance of team spirit can scarcely be overstated. When times are tough, and the side are struggling for form, the bonds of friendship between the players can carry them through. During a rough patch this season, Arteta called on three fringe Arsenal players, Mohamed Elneny, Cedric Soares, and Fabio Vieira to commit themselves to keeping the mood positive behind the scenes.
The balance of personalities within the squad is also something that has to come into consideration when it comes to making signings. As much as Arsenal will look to bring in players who can make an impact on the pitch in the upcoming summer transfer window, potential targets will also be vetted to ensure that they won’t harm the harmony of the group.