Arteta was asked about the status of winger Bukayo Saka, who may feature in the match against Palace. "We'll have to wait and see how he reacts after training," Arteta said. "Hopefully, it's not too serious." If Saka is fit, there's a good chance he'll play.
Arteta also confirmed that defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Jorginho will miss the match due to injury. He discussed the importance of recovery days, particularly for players like Thomas Partey who are looking to return from injury. "It's good to have a break because we're short on numbers," Arteta said. "Thomas wasn't feeling well, so we decided not to play him. Now, we have an opportunity to win a game against a team that's hard to beat away from home."
Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere will take over as coach of Norwich until the end of the season, and Arteta wished him well in his new role. "I wish him the best. He's decided to take on the challenge with the games left," Arteta said.
Arteta was then asked about the title race and admitted that he's focused on what he can control. "Our incentive is to win our game and continue. The rest is out of our hands."
Arteta praised winger Gabriel Martinelli, who has been in excellent form lately, including scoring a winning goal against Real Madrid. "When you look at his consistency over the past few years and his age, it's not easy. His work ethic, understanding, and leadership qualities are exactly what we want in the team."
There have been reports that Arteta might rest key players before the Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, but he dismissed this idea. "We can't think like that. If the players are fit and ready to play, they have to play. Physically and emotionally, they're in good shape."
Finally, Arteta addressed rumors of a new contract for Saka, saying that the winger has made his intentions clear. "When the time comes, we'll have those conversations. He's been very clear about his plans."