Arsenal faced PSV in the Champions League on Tuesday, having already secured qualification for the last 16. The match ended in a 1-1 draw against PSV, with Arteta making eight alterations to the starting lineup and having youngsters Ethan Nwaneri, Lino Sousa, and Reuell Walters on the bench. However, Arteta chose not to give any of these young talents playing time and explained his decision post-match.

Arteta expressed that considering the substantial changes made already, it wasn’t a suitable scenario to introduce these young players against a team that hadn’t lost a home game in almost two years. He wanted to observe the game’s flow but felt it might have been overwhelming for them, especially with three minor injuries requiring substitutions. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity to field Emile, leaving no opportunity for the younger players.

Nwaneri, Sousa, and Walters might feel disappointed as Arteta had indicated their possible involvement before the game. He had mentioned them as significant prospects deserving of development within the club’s system, intending to provide them with experience to potentially integrate them into the senior squad. However, patience remains key for the trio as they await their debut chances to showcase their abilities in Arteta’s team.

Nketiah and Reiss Nelson played crucial roles in Arsenal’s goal against PSV, marking the first instance in nine years that an English pair has combined for an Arsenal goal in the Champions League.

Having secured advancement as group winners, Arsenal anticipates the last 16 draw on December 18 to determine their opponent. Arteta’s focus shifts back to the Premier League, with upcoming matches against Brighton and Liverpool before Christmas.