KEY POINTS

  • Arteta has recovered from COVID-19
  • Spanish coach is now back to work for Arsenal
  • Arteta mapping out plans for the Gunners moving forward

Mikel Arteta is now doing better after testing positive for the coronavirus well. The 37-year-old manager has already returned to work although it will be all from his home. Like his players, Arteta is forced into isolation for precautionary measures as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to plague the world.

"We're pleased to say that Mikel is feeling much better," Arsenal said in a statement. "He's in good spirits, doing detailed planning with the coaches and speaking to the players regularly."

This development should be good for Arsenal followers although seeing them back in the field remains unknown. Football in England has been suspended until Apr. 30, possibly even longer unless there is a positive development on the raging pandemic. But the good news is that the Premier League, EFL and FA are committed to finishing the season. However, there will be needed adjustments along the way.

Either way, Arteta should be back trying to find ways as the Gunners try to continue to improve. One area that they are trying to work on is their inconsistency. It was something that Arteta was trying to address after taking over from Unai Emery back in December. Part of his plans includes mapping out transfer plans - something that may or may not sit well with backers and followers.

But like the season, all those will have to wait. Several players have found a new lease on life such as Shkodran Mustafi. The 27-year-old center back was given a break and has responded well to Arteta. Unfortunately, the Spaniard can only do so much as far as keeping the current players on the team. There is Bukayo Saka who could be moving out with several teams reportedly interested in prying him away from the Gunners.

It will be interesting if the fate of players will be part of what Arteta is trying to figure out right now. In a previous post, it was mentioned how the former midfielder is committed to his work. Had it not been the coronavirus, Lorena Bernal said that her husband would have reported for work and made do with some ibuprofen or paracetamol just to perform his duties.

With football action on pause, working from home will also help Arteta recover fully. A timeline on the resumption of play has been given. However, even that is no assurance that action will resume soon.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19 AFP / Adrian DENNIS