Arteta stated at a press conference that he is 100% sure Lewis-Skelly will remain at Arsenal after the transfer window closes.

When asked during the pre-match press conference against Coventry if he was sure Lewis-Skelly would stay, Arteta replied: "One hundred percent."

He then added: "Players who come through our academy system, who have a feeling and a connection with the club, they bring something different. There's no doubt about that."

"We have to look after them in a special way, because the value they bring is very difficult to find. So as long as we have the opportunity, we have to protect that asset as much as we can, develop them, and make them important assets for the club."

Arteta was also asked if Arsenal needed to have some difficult conversations about letting players go. Recently, Martinelli, Jesus, and Nwaneri have all been linked with departure rumors.

Arteta said: "It's a very, very difficult moment, and we have to face reality."

"But you have to face it with real honesty and transparency. And when you put yourself in the player's shoes, that's exactly what they need."

"You might not like what you hear, but if it's the truth, if it's reality, if it's honest enough, and it helps you make better decisions and helps you be clearer about what the next step in your career should be, then it has to be done. Those conversations are always tough, but they have to happen."

"We all know that everything has a beginning and an end. When a relationship comes to an end, our job and our responsibility is to deal with it in the best possible way, with respect and appreciation for the player and for the relationship we've had. But ultimately, we have to make tough decisions."

"Without singling out anyone, we are communicating with every player about these matters. I want the squad to be as strong as possible, because we know what we are fighting for, and we have learned lessons from the past, especially last season when the team had injuries in two or three positions."

"The more squad depth, the better, but players must feel valued and feel important."

Arteta is unsure if Guimaraes will make his league debut against Coventry.

The Brazilian midfielder was substituted at half-time in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City and was later seen with an ice pack on his leg.

Arteta said: "We'll see, he's recovering very well, but we'll have to observe him for tomorrow's game."

When asked about the impact of the £75 million new signing, Arteta said: "New signings always bring new energy."

"They also want to prove themselves, and they bring competition. Speaking of players, Christos (Tzolis) and Illan (Meslier) have been like that from day one, and they have raised the team's level."

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