By ISAAN KHAN

Published: 02:00, 21 October 2025 | Updated: 02:00, 21 October 2025

Before the crowds have filed into the stands at Arsenal matches this season, it is common to see the animated 5ft 10in figure of Gabriel Heinze shouting instructions to the Gunners defenders.

And these are not gentle warm-ups either. No matter the opposition, Mikel Arteta's assistant coach Heinze puts the players through intense drills, many one-on-one. There may be a good reason Arsenal have only conceded three goals this season. 

Some of Heinze's drills revolve around defensive positioning, others are fierce running workouts. Either way, the barked instructions reach the stands.

The Argentinian has been particularly hands-on with young left back Myles Lewis-Skelly this season, working hard on his crossing into the box and how he can be better in attacking scenarios. 

Arsenal sources say that Heinze, who has managed five teams himself, is well-respected by the players, and someone who does not mince his words. They know he’s not at the club to mess around.

When asked about Heinze on the eve of Arsenal's Champions...