Arteta names one Arsenal prospect he is ‘excited’ to work with next season

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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta spoke to Sky Sports about his plans for next season.

The Spaniard has done a decent job since taking over in December. Arsenal have nothing to play for in the league, but a victory in the FA Cup final against Chelsea will take them straight to the Europa League next season.

That is the priority for the Gunners, who need European competition to boost their funds for the upcoming transfer window. There is a lot of uncertainty over Arsenal’s summer plans but there is also a lot to be positive about.

The likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson have had impressive campaigns with the first-team this term. William Saliba will join them in the coming weeks, as will young Emile Smith Rowe, who is tipped by many to be the heir to Mesut Ozil’s throne.

The youngster attacking midfielder’s name brought a smile to Arteta’s face in the interview and the Arsenal boss admitted that he is excited to work with him next season.

He said: “He’s (Smith Rowe) a player with very specific qualities to play in those pockets in that position as an attacking midfielder. I am excited to work with him. I’ve been talking with him and I have followed him during his spell on loan.”

“I think he’s someone who can be pretty impressive. I’m pleased by what I’ve seen from him. He needed that exposure and he looks more mature now. I think he will be in a much better place when he comes back in pre-season.”

Smith Rowe became a fan favourite at Huddersfield Town after his late goal to give them a win against West Bromwich Albion. The Terriers avoided relegation thanks to that victory and Smith Rowe became an instant hero as a result.

Can Smith Rowe become a regular for Arsenal next season?

It looks like Arteta has no plans to use Ozil anymore. The number 10 position is hugely important for Arsenal considering that their style will force many of the smaller teams to set up a low block against them.

Ozil would have been the perfect player to break the low block but, now that he is out of favour, Smith Rowe will have the chance to nail down a place in Arsenal’s first-team next season.