LONDON — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pulled no punches during his pre-match press conference at London Colney on Monday, demanding an immediate and ferocious response from his squad when they host Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The Gunners enter European Matchday 3 seeking redemption after suffering their first defeat in all competitions this season—a humbling 2–0 loss away at AFC Bournemouth following William Saliba’s 30th-minute red card.
While Saliba must serve a domestic suspension against league leaders Liverpool on Sunday, UEFA regulations permit the French international center-back to play against Shakhtar. Arteta confirmed Saliba will start in defense alongside Gabriel Magalhães.
"William made a split-second decision in a very difficult situation," Arteta said regarding the Bournemouth incident. "He understands the consequences, but tomorrow is a different competition. He is focused, determined, and ready to lead from the back."
Arteta also delivered crucial medical updates regarding Bukayo Saka and Jurriën Timber. Saka missed the trip to the south coast due to a minor hamstring tweak suffered on international duty, while Timber has been managing muscular stiffness.
"Both Bukayo and Jurriën trained with the group today," Arteta revealed. "We will evaluate their physical responses in the final morning session. We will not take unnecessary risks with such a heavy schedule ahead, but their recovery has been very encouraging."
Arsenal have yet to concede a goal in Europe this season, having held Atalanta to a 0–0 draw in Bergamo before outclassing Paris Saint-Germain 2–0 in North London. A victory over Marino Pušić’s Shakhtar would lift Arsenal to seven points, firmly inside the top-eight qualification positions.
"In the Champions League, you cannot afford hangovers from domestic setbacks," Arteta concluded. "We must play with absolute authority, control the tempo, and take our chances ruthlessly."