Mikel Arteta pleads for Premier League to expand matchday squads next season | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta pleads for Premier League to expand matchday squads next season | OneFootball

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·30 January 2026

Mikel Arteta pleads for Premier League to expand matchday squads next season

Article image:Mikel Arteta pleads for Premier League to expand matchday squads next season

Mikel Arteta has called for the Premier League to increase matchday squads from 18 to 20 from next season, saying the current limit makes squad management harder.

As reported by L'Équipe, the Arsenal manager told Friday's press conference he hopes the league will align with the Champions League, where 20 players can be named.


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He argued that a bigger bench would simplify selection, help preserve players' value and support mental wellbeing, since nobody wants to be left out.

Arsenal top the Premier League on 50 points.

They visit Leeds on Saturday seeking to stretch their advantage over Manchester City and Aston Villa, who have 46 points.

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