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 last two seasons.
The Gunners were narrowly edged out 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 still insist the statistics show they have outperformed their challengers.
Arteta said: “If we look at the statistics, the statistics say we were the best team in the league, but the reality is we didn’t win the league, so we still need to improve and be better.
“We play to win and that’s exactly where we want to be. The pressure comes from within. You must thrive to be the best you can be.
Liverpool’s formidable form this season under Arne Slot has left Arsenal with little room for error in their framework.
“We’re going to try to be as good as possible tomorrow night, that’s the goal.
“They are a very good team, that’s why they beat us last season and also proved when we played at Villa Park that they are very difficult opponents, so we will prepare in the best way for earn.
North London derby victory
After disappointing cup results 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 the 2-1 victory, the Spanish coach said: “I loved the attitude the team played with, a great chance in front of our people, the atmosphere was great but we move on to the next one, is a great match.”
The Gunners gained ground against Liverpool after Slot’s side drew 1-1 at surprise top-four challengers Nottingham Forest.
Arteta added: It’s always important when we are able to win and capitalize on points lost by other teams. It’s always a good week, first because we win, and then because for the rest it’s not what they wanted.
“We need a lot more 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
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 to another difficult task in the Emirates.
He said: “We know the difficulty of the team they put together, that’s why they are performing so well.
“They have a great manager, very good players, a very good organization and we are so used to it in the Premier League.
“It’s not very different every three days so tomorrow we’ll have to be very good again to win the match.”
Arsenal injury news
Arteta remains without Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri and Califiori available.
“There are a few decisions to be made with the medical staff this afternoon, whether he can play this match or the next one,” Arteta said.
