Arteta have decided to retain Elneny as a rotation player after impressive performance in 2 starts in 2 games for Arsenal

James McNicholas insists the Egyptian midfielder has convinced Mikel Arteta that he has what it takes to play for the Gunners.

While he is not going to be a key man in the side, Arsenal have decided to retain him as a rotation player.

The 28-year-old was expected to leave the club upon returning from the Besiktas loan but has made 2 starts in 2 games.

The Athletic's journalist James McNicholas has provided the latest update on Mohamed Elneny's future.

"All the indications are that Mikel Arteta is, at the moment, inclined to keep him around," he told the Arsecast Extra podcast, as relayed by This is Futbol.

“He’s just quite a handy player, I don’t think anyone is saying he’s world-class, or he should start every game, or anything like it.

"But in terms of a dependable squad player where you know approximately what you’re going to get [from] them, even if there are limitations to that, I think he has an obvious use.

"Arteta couldn’t have been more full in his praise of Elneny after the game [vs Fulham]. I think all the signs are he’s going to be around."

Mo has already scored his first goal after return – albeit only in a friendly:


Mo has been impressive after coming back to Arsenal from a season-long loan at Besiktas. Even though it was widely believed he'd be the first on the chopping list, he appears to have survived the squad clearout.

The midfielder started against Liverpool in the Community Shield and continued his fine form in the Premier League clash against Fulham, playing 90 minutes in both games.

While the Egypt international did not do anything special or flashy in these games, he was reliable defensively and passed the ball well, despite Klopp's famous pressing.

And Elneny himself seems to be buzzing about getting a second chance to prove himself at the Emirates.

"I know it's not easy to be on loan and come back to Arsenal and I'm really happy because I made everyone feel like I was not away from the team," he said after the Craven Cottage win.

"This makes me really happy and I have to thank Mikel Arteta because he helped me a lot to feel like this."

Mohamed was sent away to Besiktas because Unai Emery did not see him in his team. Yet the former Basel man, praised by Arsene Wenger for his ability to "protect" the team, seems to be ready to become another player reborn under Mikel Arteta, joining the club with Granit Xhaka, Shkodran Mustafi and David Luiz.