Mikel Arteta doubled down on his comments that Arsenal have been the “best team” in the Premier League over the past few years despite missing out on the title in the past two seasons.
Manchester City narrowly edged out Arsenal in 2022-23 and 2023-24 despite spending large parts of the season at the top of the table.
This season, they are currently four points behind leaders Liverpool having played a game more, but still insist the stats show they have outperformed their rivals.
Arteta said: “If we refer to the statistics, the statistics say that we were the best team in the league, but the truth is that we did not 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 have to thrive to become the best you can be.”
Liverpool's tremendous form this season under Arne Slott has left Arsenal little margin for error
“We will try to be as good as possible tomorrow night, that is the goal.
“They are a really good team, that's why they beat us last season and they also proved when we played at Villa Park that they are very tough opponents, so we will prepare in the best way to win.
North London derby win
After disappointing results in the cups against Newcastle and Manchester United, Arsenal breathed new life into their Premier League campaign by beating rivals Tottenham in the north London derby on Wednesday.
Regarding the 2-1 victory, the Spanish coach said: “I loved the way the team played, the wonderful occasion in front of our people, and the atmosphere was wonderful, but we move on to the next match. It is a big match.”
The Gunners took the lead over Liverpool after Slot's side drew 1-1 with rivals Nottingham Forest.
Arteta added: It is always important to be able to win and benefit from other teams losing 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 more of those right now because of where we are. We need to stay very focused to understand that what we want to do is going to be a challenge.”
Arteta: Emery is an excellent coach
A 2-0 defeat to rivals 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 tough task at the Emirates Stadium.
“We know how hard the team is, that's why they are performing so well,” he said.
He added: “They have an excellent coach, very good players, and a really good organisation, and we are used to that in the Premier League.”
“It's not much different every three days, so tomorrow we'll have to be good again to win the game.”
Arsenal injury news
Arteta remains without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Ethan Nwaneri and Califiore.
Arteta said: “There are some decisions that need to be made with the medical staff this afternoon, whether he can play in this match or the next match.”
