Arsenal star admits Mikel Arteta judged him on more than his ‘football ability’

Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson has told The Athletic that Mikel Arteta thinks he’s totally changed as a player now. Nelson has found game time hard to come by in the Premier League this season due to injury problems and the brilliant form of both Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.

But when given the opportunity, Nelson proved that he had the ability to play an important role for Arsenal this season. That was highlighted by his impressive cameo against Nottingham Forest earlier in the campaign.

The 23-year-old had only made two appearances in the league. but, his impact was clear as he managed to score twice and register one assist in the process.

Speaking to The Athletic, Nelson revealed that Arteta has noticed a shift in his attitude since going out on loan. “It was pretty clear that we both had the same intentions,” the winger said.

“He said he saw a very good change in my mentality and how I approach things. He said it was never my football ability, it was just he felt sometimes I could be — not immature — but I didn’t understand the opportunity I had in front of me. I had to learn at Feyenoord (on loan in the Netherlands last season) and he wants me to carry it into Arsenal.”

Gunners247 understands that Reiss Nelson limped down the tunnel after coming off injured in the first half against Juventus in December before the Premier League restart. With his return on the horizon, Nelson will hope for more opportunities.