Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shed light on the limited playing time afforded to Emile Smith Rowe, elucidating the factors influencing his decision.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup third-round encounter against Brentford, Arteta acknowledged that Smith Rowe’s extended absence due to injury has played a significant role in his current situation.

However, he expressed optimism that the situation will soon change.

“There have been various reasons why he hasn’t been in the starting lineup. He endured a lengthy period on the sidelines. Now, he’s on the verge of getting his opportunity,” Arteta affirmed.

Arteta also emphasized the high regard in which Smith Rowe is held within the team: “He is incredibly popular here. We all hold him in great esteem. The sentiment towards him from the fans is no different from what we, as a team, feel about him.”

Emile Smith Rowe emerged as a target for Chelsea last summer

The England international emerged as an unexpected target for Chelsea, just three days before the closure of the 2023/24 summer transfer window, on Friday, September 1, 2023.

Smith Rowe was singled out as a prime acquisition in Chelsea’s somewhat nebulous strategy of assembling a cohort of skilled footballers under 24 years of age, a blueprint that some refer to as their “future building” plan.

Despite being relegated to the bench and experiencing sporadic playing time, the club’s leadership, spearheaded by head coach Mikel Arteta, holds the 23-year-old in high regard, deeming him indispensable to their long-term vision, at least based on their public statements.

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Arteta, however, conceded that Smith Rowe must demonstrate his readiness for a consistent first-team role.

The 41-year-old Spanish manager had already provided his stance on the midfielder’s situation, despite Chelsea’s mounting interest in prizing him away from the Community Shield champions.