He’s a great player,no doubt about that but Arteta doesn’t know how to use him and that is why they’re suffering”, Arne slot named the ONE Arsenal player that deserves regular playing time

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has sent shockwaves through the Premier League after taking a thinly veiled swipe at Mikel Arteta’s handling of one of Arsenal’s most talented stars. The Dutch coach, fresh off a strong run with Liverpool, openly questioned why a player of such quality has been sidelined, suggesting that Arsenal’s struggles are partly self-inflicted.

Speaking in his usual direct manner, Slot didn’t hold back: “He’s a great player, no doubt about that. But Arteta doesn’t know how to use him—and that’s why they’re suffering.” The remarks immediately set tongues wagging across England, with many speculating that the unnamed player in Slot’s criticism is Emile Smith Rowe.

Smith Rowe, once dubbed the “Croydon De Bruyne,” was hailed as one of Arsenal’s brightest academy products, capable of unlocking defenses with creativity, flair, and goals. Yet over the past two seasons, he has found himself on the periphery of Arteta’s plans, often left warming the bench while Arsenal search for solutions in midfield and attack.

Fans remember when Smith Rowe broke into the first team, sparking a revival under Arteta and forming a dangerous partnership with Bukayo Saka. However, a combination of injuries and the manager’s growing preference for new signings has left the 24-year-old frustrated. Slot’s comments add fuel to the fire, pointing out what many Arsenal supporters have been saying for months: that their team is crying out for Smith Rowe’s invention.

Slot doubled down on his position by hinting that the issue isn’t about talent but rather about management choices. “If he was at another club, he’d be playing every single week. Arsenal have him, but they don’t know how to use him.” Such blunt criticism from a rival manager is unusual, but it highlights how highly regarded the midfielder remains outside of North London.

The reaction among Arsenal fans has been divided. Some see Slot’s words as vindication, finally putting public pressure on Arteta to unleash Smith Rowe. Others, however, defend the Spanish coach, insisting that the player must earn his place back through consistency and fitness.

Nevertheless, the timing of these comments couldn’t be more telling. Arsenal have endured a rocky start to the season, struggling to break down defensive teams and at times lacking a cutting edge in midfield. Critics now point to Arteta’s reluctance to rotate his squad as a major factor, with players like Smith Rowe seemingly ignored in favor of more established names.

The situation also has potential transfer implications. Smith Rowe’s lack of minutes has already sparked rumors linking him to Premier League rivals and even European giants. With Slot’s comments shining a spotlight on his plight, clubs may be more encouraged to test Arsenal’s resolve with January offers.

For Arteta, the challenge is now twofold: restoring Arsenal’s consistency on the pitch while also managing the morale of a player who has long been considered a fan favorite. His every decision will now be scrutinized even more closely, particularly if Arsenal continue to falter creatively.

Slot, meanwhile, has made his mark not just as Liverpool’s new leader but as a figure unafraid to stir the pot. His sharp words underline a broader truth in football—sometimes the biggest risks clubs take aren’t about money spent in the transfer market, but talent wasted on the bench.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Arteta changes his stance. Will Smith Rowe finally get the run of games his supporters believe he deserves, or will Arsenal’s stubborn loyalty to their system continue to sideline a player capable of transforming matches?

One thing is certain: Arne Slot’s bold intervention has reignited a debate that won’t go away quietly. And for Arsenal fans, the wait to see if their hidden gem will shine again continues.