Arsenal: 3 ways Mikel Arteta can exploit substitute rule change

2. Bleed young players

Perhaps the most exciting development of what has been a rather dire and disappointing campaign thus far has been the emergence of several excellent young players, including Gabriel Martinelli, Reiss Nelson, Bukayo Saka and Eddie Nketiah, among many others.

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With all senior players now fit, it is likely that none will get the opportunity to start as they were doing earlier in the year with players out injured. However, instead of having to now leave some out of the squad entirely or never introduce them from off the bench, Arteta has the opportunity to still provide them with significant gametime.

He can change Nketiah for Alexandre Lacazette in the 55th minute and not worry about using his substitutes too early. Saka can rotate with Kieran Tierney at left-back, Martinelli and Nelson can replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pepe. Arteta now has options galore, especially young options.

Gametime is such a crucial element of player development, and it can be difficult for top teams to give their young players sufficient minutes to learn and grow. This rule change will provide Arteta with that opportunity. It is not as significant or helpful as regular starts, but it is a major step in the right direction.