Arteta changes an almost century old football terminology at Arsenal Football Club

Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal Football Club, has made a significant change in the way he refers to his substitutes during matches. Instead of calling them substitutes, he now refers to them as “impactors.” This change has caught the attention of fans and media alike, with many wondering why Arteta made this decision.

Arsenal is currently leading the Premier League table with 66 points after 27 games. However, they are closely followed by second-placed Manchester City, which has 61 points. The Gunners are in a title race and need every point they can get to stay ahead of their rivals.

This season, Arsenal has come from behind to win matches, and Arteta’s impactors have been heavily involved in getting them valuable points. The likes of Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira have all made significant contributions off the bench.

When asked about his decision to call his substitutes “impactors,” Arteta explained that it was all about mentality. He said that he wanted his players to understand that when they come on the pitch, they should be focused on making an impact and helping the team win.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta talks to his players during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on March 04, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

“It is [about] replacing somebody and making the team better or doing things differently that are related to winning football matches,” Arteta told Goal. “At the end your mentality should be only that, to impact the game to win it. That’s it, nothing else.”

Arteta’s approach seems to be working so far. Arsenal has won their last four Premier League matches and is unbeaten in their last six games in all competitions. The Gunners’ next match is against Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League Round of 16.

While some may see Arteta’s decision as a small change in terminology, it speaks volumes about his approach as a manager. He wants his players to have a winning mentality and focus on making an impact whenever they step onto the pitch.

As Arsenal continues their title race this season, fans will be watching closely to see if Arteta’s impactors can continue making a difference off the bench. If they do, it could be what helps Arsenal lift their first Premier League trophy since 2004.