Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called for changes to Premier League squad rules after Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus were left out of his Community Shield squad.
Arteta said the players were unavailable because of squad size restrictions and revealed that he has been speaking with the Premier League about increasing the number of players clubs can register.
Premier League clubs can currently register 25 players aged 21 or over. Players under 21 do not need to be included in the 25-man squad and can play throughout the season.
Teams can also name 20 players on a matchday, with 11 starters and nine substitutes.
“It’s really sad not to have their availability. I’ve been fighting with the Premier League to extend and accommodate more players in the squad because they deserve to be in the squad, there’s no question.
“Ethan [Nwaneri] and Marli [Salmon] as well, who has had the whole pre-season with us. Hopefully we can change that rule so players can enjoy on the pitch and can be an option to play and contribute to the team going forward,” Arteta told TNT Sports.
Martinelli was also absent after recently turning down a move to Galatasaray. Arsenal had accepted a £38.9 million offer for the Brazilian, but the 25-year-old was reportedly reluctant to move to Turkey.
