Mikel Arteta has shared the ‘phenomenal’ thing the Arsenal manager saw in training ahead of the Gunners heading to Manchester City for a crunch Premier League clash.
The north London natives head to Etihad Stadium on Sunday looking to stamp their mark as title contenders. Despite Arsenal topping the top-flight table after 28 fixtures, Arteta’s team are widely expected to slip behind title rivals Manchester City and Liverpool over the run-in.
Arsenal winning away to Manchester City for the first time since 2015 would be huge for the club’s title bid. It could easily give Arteta’s team the momentum to secure the Gunners’ first crown since 2003/04. Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles remain Arsenal’s most recent champions.
Saka, Martinelli and Gabriel need late injury tests for Arsenal’s trip to Man City
But fitness concerns may complicate Arteta’s bid on Sunday. Bukayo Saka (muscle), Gabriel Magalhaes (Achilles) and Gabriel Martinelli (foot) all require late fitness tests for their injury problems before Arsenal visit Manchester City after each withdrew from international duty.
Martinelli secured Arsenal a 1-0 win over Pep Guardiola’s Citizens back in October when his late shot deflected home off Nathan Ake. It was the Gunners’ first win over Manchester City in the Premier League since December 2015 and even ended a 12-match defeated run, too.
Arteta saw something ‘phenomenal’ in training after the international break
Going straight to a title rival in Manchester City after an international break could also offer Arteta’s Arsenal problems. But the Spaniard found it ‘phenomenal’ how his players reacted upon returning to London Colney, keen to start training and primed for the challenge ahead.
“I was just watching everybody walk into the building and I love the energy,” Arteta told his press conference. “I love the smiles. They were glad to be back and they actually wanted to train yesterday. The way they communicate and relay with each other is phenomenal.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka from his age, parents and house
“We have to embrace the moment. We need to go day-by-day, train really well and prepare for every match and see where this can take us. We’ve done a lot already to be in the position that we are in and now we have to embrace and enjoy the moment and go for it.”
Arsenal are on a brilliant run of form having won all eight of their Premier League games in 2024 yet. But the Gunners face a tricky run-in with encounters against Brighton, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester United to come during their final 10 games this term.
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