Mikel Arteta Stays Optimistic About Arsenal’s Premier League Title Chances

The Gunners maintain a three-point cushion at the summit of the league, yet City have a game in hand and are riding a wave of momentum.

Arsenal have now endured four back-to-back losses in domestic competitions, leading them to miss the opportunity to conclude a six-year trophy drought in both the League Cup and FA Cup.

History may be on the brink of repeating itself, as Arteta’s side has previously squandered leads against City during the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons, which ultimately resulted in second place finishes.

However, Arteta remains firm in his belief that his players’ confidence has not been undermined following a markedly improved showing at the Etihad Stadium.

“I have belief today, I will have belief on Wednesday, and I believed a week ago, because I see them every day and know the level we possess,” stated Arteta.

“If they need more conviction, I think they now have it. We’re discussing it in the dressing room.”

“This is a new phase in the league. We have a three-point lead while they have a game in hand.”

“There’s still so much to contend for. We understand how much we desire it, and we won’t give up.”

On paper, Arsenal’s remaining fixtures appear less challenging compared to City’s, but they face the added pressure of being the sole English team still competing in the Champions League.

Arteta’s squad is set for a demanding semi-final showdown against Atletico Madrid as they chase the glory of becoming European champions for the first time.

Nevertheless, Arteta dismissed the notion that he needs to motivate his players as they approach the final stretch of the season.

“If I have to motivate the players to win the Premier League with five matches left, while being in the Champions League semi-finals, I should probably be at home,” he quipped.

“That’s not the situation we’re in, and it’s never been necessary, even in tough times. We will go again, that’s for certain.”