Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has opened up on Alexandre Lacazette's controversial recent interview.
The Frenchman has endured a difficult 2021/22 campaign, netting just four Premier League goals - two of which have been from the penalty spot. And the 30-year-old, who is into the final three months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium appeared to admit that a summer exit is likely.
Speaking to Canal Plus, he said: “I am in discussions with a lot of clubs. I am open." The veteran centre-forward has been linked with a return to Ligue 1 side Lyon and he admitted that he is still in regular contact with his former side when asked about a potential return to the Groupama Stadium.
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He added: “I have never cut contact with Lyon since I left. I try to return to the club once or twice a year to see the medical staff because we are really close. Lyon knows that I am free, they have come to the information."
Now, Arteta has spoken about Lacazette's interview during his pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday night's clash against Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea. When asked about the interview, Arteta said: "His contract situation allows him to make a decision about his future.
"We have expressed our intention is to speak in the summer. For the rest, I just want him fully focussed on his duty which is to defend Arsenal in the best possible way."
When the Spaniard was asked if he was surprised Lacazette is speaking to other clubs, he added: "He doesn't need to tell me what he does."
