Reiss Nelson is optimistic about Arsenal’s chance to regroup during their warm-weather break in Dubai following a challenging period that saw them drop to fourth in the Premier League and exit the FA Cup. 
The squad, currently out of form, will not have a match until the following Saturday when they face Crystal Palace. The week-long trip to Dubai aims to provide training in sunny conditions while fostering team bonding, with players encouraged to bring their families along. Mikel Arteta plans to keep the training sessions light, considering the physical and mental strain on the squad due to injuries. The team will adhere to Premier League guidelines, avoiding friendlies and major commercial activities during the break.
Arsenal’s recent setbacks, including a 2-0 FA Cup loss to Liverpool, have left them with two perspectives: dwelling on the defeats or using the time off to rest and clear their heads. Inside the club, the latter interpretation is being emphasized.
Nelson, who started in the Liverpool match, sees the break as an opportunity to leave behind the recent losses and come back stronger. “It’s a chance for us to put all the games behind us that we had. We lost three on the bounce and it’s not the best situation. But now we can regroup, go back to the drawing board and come back fighting for Palace,” he said.
The warm-weather break provides a chance for the players to spend time together beyond training. Nelson expressed his excitement about the break, emphasizing the positive aspects of being in a different environment, engaging in fun activities, and enjoying the good weather.
Despite their recent struggles, Arteta confirmed that Gabriel Jesus would join the team in Dubai after missing the Liverpool match due to a knee injury. Other injured players include Zinchenko, Partey, Vieira, and Timber, while Tomiyasu and Elneny are on duty at international competitions.
Arteta’s decision to start Nelson over Martinelli against Liverpool reflects the latter’s recent form, indicating that the break will be beneficial for both Martinelli and Saka, who have faced challenges in their performances. Nelson acknowledged his missed opportunity in the Liverpool match but remains optimistic about the team’s ability to bounce back after the break.