‘Very positive’: Edu Gaspar left blown away by news that’s coming out of Arsenal

Ahead of the upcoming North London derby, the last week has been a bit doom and gloom at Arsenal, a feeling first triggered by Declan Rice’s red card.

Arsenal supporters were already lamenting the loss of Rice even before his brilliance for England over the break.

Lee Carsley decided to try Rice in the same role Mikel Arteta envisions as his best, and it certainly paid dividends.

That being said, that hard-done-by feeling only worsened when Martin Odegaard was injured playing for Norway – a player who arguably should have been rested over the break.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but Odegaard did take a knock against Brighton & Hove Albion, and was visibly in pain on the bench after his substitution.

Edu says Arsenal are ready to hit ‘new heights’ after Mikel Arteta contract renewal

That being said, ahead of Sunday’s huge affair, there has now been a change in mood owing to the new three-year deal signed by Arteta. 

The Arsenal boss, as many thought, is here to stay, and has provided a big boost for the club ahead of facing Spurs.

Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu Gaspar, will have no doubt been intrinsic to talks, and spoke about his delight via the club website following the announcement.

Edu said it was a ‘proud moment’ and reiterated the ambition that the club possesses.

He shared: “We are really happy that Mikel has signed a new long-term contract.

“It’s a very positive and proud moment for everyone at the club and an important part of what we’re all working towards.

“Mikel has shown his qualities since the very first day he joined us, not only as a football manager, but as a person with wonderful values.

“We have a strong belief in what we are doing and what we want to achieve together.

“Mikel’s new contract gives us stability and clear direction as we aim for new heights.”

Arsenal to make Ethan Nwaneri decision

Having signed his new contract, one of Arteta’s immediate decisions will be how best to repair his midfield ahead of facing Spurs.

As mentioned, both Rice and Odegaard will be missing, meaning Thomas Partey will have two new partners, presuming he’s fit.

Kai Havertz seems very likely to drop into a deeper role, perhaps meaning Leandro Trossard will start as a false nine.

And Arsenal may turn to Ethan Nwaneri in midfield, even if the Hale End star hasn’t started a Premier League game to date.

Some interesting opportunities to be had, and Arteta will already have chance to repay the club’s faith with his own decisions.