Mikel Arteta has cautioned Bruno Guimaraes that he will keep expecting elevated standards from the Arsenal summer arrival, even though the midfielder netted a crucial goal on his home debut versus Leeds.
The Brazilian entered from the bench and delivered a superb shot from the edge of the box to clinch the win. The goal completed a slick passing sequence involving Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice in a demanding fixture for Arsenal.
Arteta outlines expectations for Bruno Guimaraes at Arsenal
Guimaraes made a prompt impression after coming on, mirroring the effect he had when introduced at half-time against Sunderland last month. Yet, when questioned about whether the midfielder had validated his £75million fee with his latest display of individual brilliance, Arteta emphasised that he anticipates steady performances across the entire season.
“But he wasn’t at that level against Brighton,” the Arsenal manager stated. “This is the level for Arsenal. Every week, every game, every minute, every action, you have to be at that level.”
Arteta recognised that Guimaraes fared considerably better against Leeds but maintained that there was still scope for enhancement. He clarified that the benchmarks he sets for himself also extend to his players, believing that improved consistency will assist the team in progressing.
“At Brighton he wasn’t; today was much better. He can still be much better than the games he has done,” Arteta said. “That’s what we have to demand. This is what I demand of myself. I’m going to demand the same of the players, because if we do that, it will raise the standards, and we will be a better team.”
Bruno Guimaraes’ Arsenal form and fitness concerns
Guimaraes’ beginning at Arsenal has been impacted by a few minor injuries and the absence of a complete pre-season. Following a prolonged break after the World Cup, he joined the Gunners only a couple of weeks prior to the season commencing, restricting the time available to integrate into the squad.
His international duties have also had an effect. The midfielder started just one of Brazil’s three matches during the international break, when Carlo Ancelotti’s side travelled to Australia and India.
Arteta clarified that Guimaraes was not yet in peak physical shape and that Arsenal had chosen to start players who were more acclimated with the team. The manager also stressed the significance of controlling the midfielder’s workload, with fixtures arriving on Tuesday night and Sunday.
“The reality is that he went to Australia, then to India,” Arteta said. “He’s still not in the best condition because he hasn’t had a preseason. So we thought ok, [start] the players that are more settled here.”
Arteta added that Guimaraes could be introduced to alter a game when required, while the schedule made cautious management vital. With numerous demands on the squad, Arsenal plan to balance his participation as he continues to develop his fitness and adjust to the team.