Mikel Arteta has doubled down on his comments that Arsenal have been the “best team” in the Premier League in recent years, despite missing out on the title in the past two seasons.
The Gunners were narrowly missed by Manchester City in 2022-23 and 2023-24, despite spending much 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 he still insists the stats show they have outclassed their challengers.
Arteta said: “If we refer to the statistics, the statistics said we were the best team in the league, but the reality is that we didn’t win the league, so we still have to improve and be better.
“We play to win and that’s exactly where we want to be. The pressure comes from within. You have to thrive to be the best you can be.”
Liverpool’s terrible form this season under Arne Slott has left Arsenal with little room for error.
“We’ll try to be as good as we can tomorrow night, that’s the goal.
“They are a very good team, that’s why they beat us last season and they also proved when we played at Villa Park that they are very difficult opponents, so we will prepare in the best way to win.
Victory in the North London derby
After disappointing cup results against Newcastle and Manchester United, Arsenal breathed new life into their Premier League campaign with victory over Tottenham in the north London derby on Wednesday.
On that 2-1 win, the Spanish manager said: “I liked the attitude the team played with, a great opportunity in front of our crowd, the atmosphere was great, but we move on to the next one, this is a big game.” .
The Gunners gained ground at Liverpool after Slot’s side drew 1-1 with surprise top-four side Nottingham Forest.
Arteta added: It’s always important when we can win and take advantage of 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 a lot more of that right now because of where we are. We have to stay very focused to understand that what we want to do will be a challenge.
Arteta: Emery is an excellent coach
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by rivals Aston Villa, managed by former Arsenal boss Unai Emery, ultimately proved costly for their title hopes last season and Arteta knows the Gunners face another tough task in the Emirates.
He said: “We know the difficulty of the team they are, that’s why they are performing so well.
“They have a great manager, very good players, very good organization and we are so used to that in the Premier League.
“It’s not much different every three days, so tomorrow we’ll have to be really good again to win the game.”
Arsenal injury news
Arteta remains without Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri and Califiori could be available.
“There are some decisions to be made with the medical staff this afternoon if he can play in this game or the next.” Arteta said.
