Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has expressed his strong desire for the Premier League to amend its rules to allow a larger number of players in matchday squads starting next season. Currently, teams are limited to naming just 18 players for each match, which is two fewer than the regulations in UEFA competitions.
Arteta’s plea aligns with the sentiments of other top managers, including Liverpool’s Arne Slot and Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, who have also advocated for increased squad sizes. Ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming match against Leeds United, Arteta remarked, “Currently, there are two or three players who have to sit out of the squad. That’s just the reality, which I cannot change. I hope that next season, the Premier League will allow for 20 outfield players instead of 18.”
“I’m begging them to consider this change, similar to what exists in the Champions League. It would make squad management significantly easier, help maintain player value, and contribute positively to their mental health, as no one wants to be left out of the squad.”
“I truly urge them to assist us in this matter. We can handle logistics like hotels and travel, and it would significantly benefit everyone involved, as leaving someone out is one of the most challenging aspects of the job,” he added.
Arteta continued, “Ultimately, we have various players capable of filling multiple roles, but we can’t overload some positions while neglecting others. This is the usual thought process behind such decisions. Every player’s contribution, attitude, and effort are essential—they should be involved in every match.”
When discussing the mental health impacts on players, Arteta stated: “Our job is unique because we have the potential to change lives and careers. However, every week involves the difficult task of telling someone, ‘You won’t be participating tomorrow. You can’t even travel with the team.’ I can’t think of any other profession where such a scenario exists.”
He highlighted the importance of every player feeling included and having the opportunity to contribute. “When you deny a player the chance to participate, they may feel inadequate since you are effectively choosing 20 players over them. This is something we should seek to avoid. The demands of the game have increased, and thus our squads must grow as well.”
Arteta has also previously suggested that Premier League clubs be permitted to register more than 25 senior players in their squads for the season.