Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent an important message to his players about getting too emotional about this season’s Premier League title race.
The Gunners currently sit top of the table and will be desperate to finally get over the line after three consecutive seasons in second place.
Arteta’s side have had some close games in recent years but have not been able to go all the way, and that will undoubtedly be a challenge he and his Arsenal players will have to address again this season.
Asked in Friday’s press conference how he would deal with that pressure, Arteta called for calm in what will ultimately be a long season with many ups and downs.
Mikel Arteta’s message to Arsenal players
Arteta spoke about how it feels to be top of the table at the moment, reminding reporters that while it has recently felt like an away defeat to Newcastle United would have ended the title race, that could change quickly.
Arteta made it clear that he wants his players to remain calm and not get too caught up in such emotions if they want to finish the season as champions.
“We can’t pay too much attention to that because we’re going to Newcastle and it was like if we lose at Newcastle that’s the end of the Premier League,” Arteta said.
“And a week later, you’re where you are. So let’s be honest, let’s focus on what we can control, let’s focus on our performance… and let’s focus on achieving what we want to achieve.”
“And what about the rest? 30 more games… so much is going to happen and emotionally I can’t let it drag me down. There are more important things.”
Can Arsenal finally win the Premier League title?
It won’t be easy for Arsenal to defeat reigning champions Liverpool or keep Manchester City, who have been impressive all season, at bay.
Still, the north London giants have given themselves the best possible chance with a strong summer transfer window.
The depth of Arsenal’s squad looks much better than last season, with big name arrivals such as Martin Zvimendi, Victor Gokeres, Ebelesi Eze and Noni Maduke.
AFC have also had a difficult start, but have managed to remain top of the league despite trips to Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle, as well as a home game against Man City.
