Mikel Arteta has fired a warning to Premier League leaders Liverpool, promising that Arsenal will “be flying” when the two teams meet this weekend. This comes after Arsenal’s gritty 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, where the Gunners extended their unbeaten run in the competition but struggled to close the game.
Arsenal’s only goal came in the 29th minute, courtesy of a Gabriel Martinelli strike that ricocheted off the post and rebounded into the net via Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk. Despite dominating in the first half, Arsenal couldn’t capitalize on further chances, with Leandro Trossard missing a penalty in the second half, summing up their frustration in front of goal.
Arteta admitted that his side looked “tired” after a packed schedule, which saw several players return from international duty, but he reassured fans that the team will be in top form when Liverpool visits the Emirates on Sunday.
“We were dominant in the first half, but we lacked sharpness and made some mistakes that opened up chances for them in the second,” Arteta said. “However, we’ve got four days to recover, and I can guarantee we’ll be flying against Liverpool.”
Arteta is also facing a defensive dilemma, with key players William Saliba suspended and Riccardo Calafiori potentially sidelined after suffering a knee injury. Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also unavailable due to injury concerns. Despite the challenges, Arteta remains confident in his squad’s depth and ability to deliver in such a high-stakes match.
As the Premier League title race heats up, Arsenal will be eager to prove themselves against one of the strongest teams in the league, and Arteta’s vow suggests his side is ready for the challenge.
