Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal Football Club, is constantly exploring innovative methods to enhance his team’s performance and propel them towards silverware. His latest strategy involves infusing the training ground at London Colney with an upbeat, vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of Brazil’s Samba culture. This unconventional approach utilizes music, specifically the popular Brazilian tune “Mais Que Nada” by Sergio Mendes, to boost morale and energize the players during training sessions. Arteta views music as a powerful tool capable of altering moods, shifting energy levels, and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the team. He often incorporates music with historical significance for the players, creating a shared experience that resonates with the team’s identity and strengthens their bond.
The implementation of music in training is not a novel concept for Arteta, who has been integrating it into his sessions for years. He believes music has the ability to set the tone and purpose of training, adding a dynamic element that keeps the players engaged and motivated. The selection of music is sometimes collaborative, with players given the opportunity to choose songs, further promoting a sense of ownership and shared experience within the squad. This collaborative approach underscores Arteta’s emphasis on team unity and shared purpose. He understands that music can evoke powerful emotions and associations, creating a positive and energized training environment.
The introduction of Brazilian music comes at a critical time for Arsenal, who have faced recent setbacks including an FA Cup exit, a Carabao Cup semi-final defeat, and a disappointing draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League. These results have dampened the team’s spirits and left them trailing in the title race. Furthermore, the team has been plagued by injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, adding to the existing challenges. Arteta hopes that the uplifting and rhythmic Samba music will inject positivity and revitalize the squad during this challenging period, helping them regain their focus and momentum.
This is not the first time Arteta has employed music strategically in training. In 2021, he attempted to prepare his players for a match against Liverpool at Anfield by playing their anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” during training. Unfortunately, the tactic backfired, resulting in a 4-0 defeat. However, Arteta remains convinced of the power of music and its potential to positively influence the team’s mindset. He views it as a cultural element that can transcend mere entertainment and become a catalyst for improved performance and team cohesion. His persistence in using music strategically exemplifies his adaptability and willingness to experiment with different approaches to maximize his team’s potential.
Leandro Trossard, a winger for Arsenal, initially found the inclusion of music in training unusual but has since grown accustomed to it. He now recognizes its value in enhancing focus and emphasizing the importance of each game. Trossard acknowledges the unique nature of Arteta’s methods, highlighting their impact on player engagement and mental preparation. Despite being linked with a potential transfer, Trossard emphasizes his competitive spirit and determination to contribute to the team’s success, whether starting or coming off the bench. He clarifies that his sometimes-perceived “moaning” is simply a reflection of his passion for winning and his desire for fair play.
Arsenal faces Dinamo Zagreb in a crucial Champions League match, with a victory potentially securing a top-eight spot in the new league format. Arteta stresses the importance of controlling what they can control and learning from past mistakes. He encourages his players to focus on improving their performance and capitalizing on opportunities to secure a positive result. The upcoming match holds significant weight for Arsenal’s Champions League aspirations, and Arteta is determined to guide his team toward a strong finish in the group stage. The integration of Brazilian Samba music into the training regimen is just one example of Arteta’s innovative approach to team management and his unwavering commitment to achieving success.
