Coach Mikel Arteta: 'Arsenal Should Not Dream of Winning the Title'

Despite Arsenal topping the standings and being viewed as leading candidates for the Premier League 2025/26 championship, Coach Mikel Arteta maintains a careful approach, steering clear of adding pressure on his squad.

Coach Mikel Arteta emphasized that he is not caught up in the title race, even as Arsenal rise to become prime contenders for the Premier League 2025/26 crown. Last weekend, Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham, extending their lead over second-placed Manchester City to three points. Meanwhile, reigning champions Liverpool continue to struggle, suffering a defeat to Manchester United, marking their third consecutive loss in domestic competitions.

Since their defeat to Liverpool in August, the “Gunners” have gone unbeaten in 8 matches across all competitions, including 5 straight wins in the Premier League. With 19 points from 8 games, Arsenal currently sit top of the table, 3 points ahead of Man City and 4 points clear of Liverpool.

Nevertheless, Arteta maintains his usual caution. Speaking ahead of the Champions League match against Atletico Madrid, the Spanish coach said: “I only focus on the energy, spirit, and quality that the players show. That makes me believe we can go all the way. But belief must be proven in every match. In the Premier League, every game is like a final, so we cannot afford to dream.”

One issue troubling Arteta is the form of the star signing Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker, acquired from Sporting CP for over 73 million Euros, has scored only 3 goals in 8 matches. He is currently in a 7-game goal drought for Arsenal. However, Arteta remains confident: “He’s working very hard, creating many chances. The whole team is hoping he will score, and that will definitely come.”

Additionally, Arsenal are battling a wave of injuries, missing several key players such as Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Noni Madueke. In October, the North London club has to play 6 matches across various competitions, starting with a tough away game against Atletico Madrid.

Though the road ahead is long, Arsenal are showing the resilience of a mature and stable team. If they maintain this form, the “Gunners” can definitely turn their dream of winning the title after more than two decades into reality.