Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta is praying for West Ham to cause a massive upset on the final day of the Premier League season.
The Gunners sit two points behind Manchester City going into the weekend and know they must beat Everton if they are to win the title.
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Even if they do win, they are relying on their London rivals to shock Pep Guardiola and Co, who are on a 22-game unbeaten run.
Arsenal have been formidable this season, losing just five times and only once in 2024, against Aston Villa.
But it still may not be enough as City eye a fourth consecutive title.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Arteta said: “It is one of the biggest weeks for many of us. Now is the most important moment.
“We are excited and can’t wait for Sunday. We are very optimistic in terms of outcome.
“The hope is there. We have to do our job because Everton will be tough.
“We have to prove again that we can be better than the opponent. Then we have to wish for West Ham to have a really good day and help us to fulfil our dream.”
“He’s been instrumental in my life” ❤️
Mikel Arteta says David Moyes can “help fulfil Arsenal’s dream” on Sunday if West Ham get a positive result against Man City. pic.twitter.com/02ei3bVn5U
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 17, 2024
Guardiola’s former assistant says he has prepared his players in the best way possible ahead of the weekend.
He says they all have to believe something magical is going to happen, but at the same time focus on what is in their control.
Everton have one of the best defensive records in the league this season and will not be an easy opponent.
Arteta is aware of the threat Sean Dyche’s side poses and is hoping the support of the Emirates crowd will be enough to see them through.
He added: “”The only thing we have discussed is giving ourselves the opportunity to live a beautiful day. The dream is still alive because it is football.
“We have to play like we do every single week and understand that, for the dream to happen, we have to win and then hope that West Ham will help us.
“Whatever happens it will be emotional on the day.
“I have to think we will win the game and then hopefully something beautiful is going to happen.
“There is hope around the building! It will be the last day of the season and we are playing for the Premier League trophy.
“It hasn’t yet been at the Emirates Stadium, which has been open for over 20 years, so yes we will have to be very optimistic. We have to do our duties and then see what happens.”
