Mikel Arteta has doubled down on his comments that Arsenal have been the “best team” in the Premier League for the last few years despite missing out on the title for the last two seasons.
The Gunners were narrowly pipped by Manchester City in 2022-23 and 2023-24 despite spending large parts of the campaign at the top of the table.
This season, they currently sit four points behind leaders Liverpool having played a game more, but still insists the statistics show they have outperformed their challengers.
Arteta said: “If we refer to the stats, the stats said that we were the best team in the league but the reality is that we didn’t win the league so we still need to improve and be better.
“We are playing to win and that’s exactly where we want to be. The pressure comes from within. You have to thrive to be the best that you possibly can be.”
Liverpool’s formidable form this season under Arne Slot has left little margin for error for Arsenal in their pur
“We’re going to try to be as good as we possibly can tomorrow night, that’s the objective.
“They are a really good side, that’s why they beat us last season and proved as well when we played at Villa Park that they are very difficult opponents, so we’ll prepare in the best way to win.
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North London derby win
After disappointing results in the cups against Newcastle and Manchester United, Arsenal breathed new life into their Premier League campaign with victory over rivals Tottenham in the North London derby on Wednesday.
On that 2-1 victory, the Spanish manager said: “I loved the attitude that the team played with, great occasion in front of our people, the atmosphere was brilliant but we move on to the next one, that’s a big game.”
The Gunners gained ground on Liverpool after Slot’s side drew 1-1 with surprise top-four challengers Nottingham Forest.
Arteta added: It’s always important when we are able to win and capitalise on other teams dropping points. It’s always a great week, firstly because we win, and secondly because for the rest it’s not what they wanted.
“We need many more of those at the moment because of where we are. We need to stay very focused to understand that what we want to do will be a challenge.
Arteta: Emery is an excellent coach
A 2-0 defeat to Saturday’s opponents Aston Villa, managed by former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, ultimately proved costly to their title hopes last season and Arteta knows the Gunners face another difficult task at the Emirates.
He said: “We know the difficulty of the team that they are, that’s why they’re performing so well.
“They have an excellent coach, very good players, really good organisation and we are so used to that in the Premier League.
“It’s not very different every three days so tomorrow we’re going to have to be really good again to win the game.”
Arsenal injury news
Arteta remains without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri and Califiori could be available.
“There a few decisions to make with the medical staff this afternoon, whether he can play in this game or the next one.,” Arteta said.
