Arsenal ‘Right In The Mix’ for Premier League title - Arteta
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains optimistic about the Gunners’ Premier League title ambitions, affirming that his squad is “right in the mix” despite recent setbacks. Arsenal currently sits third in the league, trailing leaders Manchester City by five points after nine games, following a surprising 2-0 loss to Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
The Gunners are set to face Newcastle United away on Saturday, aiming to close the points gap and keep their title hopes alive. Arteta, addressing concerns about the growing distance from the top, expressed confidence in his team’s resilience and adaptability.
“We want to be first, and we want to win every game,” Arteta emphasized. “We know the challenges we face this season, but we’re right in the mix. We know tomorrow will be tough, but we’re fully prepared.”
Despite a series of injuries impacting Arsenal's lineup, Arteta highlighted the team’s “incredible capacity” to compete, referencing last week’s intense match against Liverpool as an example of their grit.
“Unfortunately, a lot happened that we couldn’t have planned for,” Arteta reflected. “With our squad size, adaptability was always part of our strategy from pre-season. The team has shown an incredible ability to compete and often outperform the opposition.”
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Arsenal’s defensive options remain limited, with Riccardo Calafiori and Martin Odegaard confirmed out, while Takehiro Tomiyasu is also unavailable. Arteta is uncertain about Ben White’s fitness but hinted Gabriel Magalhaes could make an appearance.
Although Newcastle sits 12th in the table and hasn’t won in five games, Arteta warned of the challenge they pose. “They’re a fantastic team with intense coaching,” he said. “St. James’ Park is a fantastic stadium, and we know the atmosphere will be electric.”
Arteta also praised 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who recently scored his third goal of the season in the League Cup win over Preston. Calling Nwaneri’s talent “rare,” Arteta remarked, “You have to push him, but also protect him. He has to see that he can fly, without clipping his wings.”
As Arsenal seeks to maintain pressure on Manchester City and keep pace with title contenders, Arteta’s confidence in his squad’s ability to adapt and compete is clear.
SportsLigue