Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, is urging his team to step up their performance as they gear up for a pivotal moment in the Premier League title race against local rivals Tottenham.
The Gunners, currently topping the league table, are set to face Tottenham on Sunday in a highly anticipated showdown that could have significant implications for their title ambitions.
Arteta told reporters on Friday, about the need for his players to elevate their game against a strong Tottenham side.
"Enjoy the moment, and try to navigate things in a natural way. Tottenham are super-competitive at the moment. There is one thing to do in this situation, compete, compete, compete," said Arteta.
Following a setback against Aston Villa, Arsenal have bounced back with impressive wins against Wolves and a resounding 5-0 victory over Chelsea on Tuesday.
However, Arteta is keenly aware of the challenge posed by fifth-placed Tottenham, who held Arsenal to a 2-2 draw earlier in the season.
While Arsenal currently hold a one-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand, Arteta remains focused on his team's performance rather than City's results. "It’s another game that they managed to win in a convincing way, something that we cannot control. Let’s do what we have to do," he stated.
With Arsenal aiming to secure their first league title in 20 years, a victory against Tottenham would not only bolster their title aspirations but also dent their rivals' hopes of securing a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming match, Arteta expressed the desire to bring joy to Arsenal supporters with a positive result. "You know what you can give to your people, which is a lot of joy and happiness if we manage to win the game," he said.
While Arsenal may not clinch the title on Tottenham's turf this time, a win would undoubtedly keep them in the hunt for silverware and maintain the pressure on their title rivals.