Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is hoping the World Cup interruption doesn’t dampen Arsenal’s momentum after they widened the gap at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
Captain Martin Odegaard scored Arsenal’s two goals in the second half, taking his tally to 37 points, five points behind second-placed Manchester City, who lost at home to Brentford on the same day.
The English Premier League will pause after Sunday’s matches due to the World Cup being held in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December.
Arteta told the BBC (BBC): I wish the World Cup participants success and take care of themselves and enjoy the tournament because there is nothing better than representing your country.
The Spanish coach added: “I don’t know if the World Cup will interrupt Arsenal’s prosperous career. I hope for the best. When everyone returns, we will evaluate our position and get back to work.
Despite concerns about mid-season downtime, Arteta indicated it was an opportunity to think and prepare for the second half of the season.
And he said at the press conference: it’s great to occupy this position now and enjoy this moment, now we’re starting a long break and we have to reflect on what we’re doing and prepare for the post-World Cup phase.
Arsenal will return to the league by hosting West Ham United on 26 December.
