This archive report was first published on 22 October 2021.
LONDON, United Kingdom, October 22, 2021 - Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence in Alexandre Lacazette's commitment to the team, despite the France striker's contract expiring at the end of the current campaign.
Arteta stated that 'anything is possible' when it comes to Lacazette signing a new deal, but emphasized that the 30-year-old forward's attitude to playing for Arsenal will remain unaffected by the doubts surrounding his future at the Premier League club.
Lacazette has played just 72 minutes of Premier League football this season, but he came off the bench to grab a last-gasp equaliser in Monday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.
Now, he will be pressing for a start when Arsenal face Aston Villa at the Emirates on Friday, and Arteta expects Lacazette to maintain his standards on behalf of the north London side.
'I had no doubts about that,' said Arteta. 'If I had, probably I would suggest to do something different with him in the summer, when a player could not find the motivation or if his interests are just with his financial future.'
Arteta emphasized that Lacazette's commitment to the team is not solely driven by financial interests, citing the striker's consistent performance since his arrival at the club.
