Manager Mikel Arteta: 'We came here to win'

Mikel Arteta asserts that Arsenal traveled to Manchester City's stadium to secure victory, despite the absence of Bukayo Saka in the match that could decide the championship race.

Arsenal entered the major clash with Manchester City with an uncompromising mindset, as Manager Mikel Arteta affirmed that his team is solely focused on winning, regardless of the significant loss of Bukayo Saka.

On the eve of the match that could determine the outcome of the Premier League title race, many opinions suggested Arsenal would adopt a cautious approach at Etihad. However, Arteta immediately dismissed this. The Spanish coach emphasized that his team did not come to Manchester seeking a draw, but to claim all three points and assert their ambition to end a title drought spanning over two decades.

“We came there to win. There is no intention of playing for a draw. Arsenal always prepares to win, at any venue,” Arteta declared firmly.

Nevertheless, the challenge facing “The Gunners” is substantial. Saka's confirmed absence due to an Achilles tendon injury leaves a significant gap on the right flank where he has consistently been the most dangerous attacking threat. Additionally, other key players like Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber are also not guaranteed to be in optimal physical condition.

Despite this, Arteta expressed absolute confidence in the squad's depth. He believes that the personnel difficulties throughout the season have actually helped Arsenal mature, learning to adapt and find solutions in adverse situations.

“We have faced numerous injuries yet still stand in our current position. That speaks to the team's character and spirit,” he emphasized.

With a six-point gap but having played one more match, Arsenal knows that a victory at Etihad would be a massive boost in the title race. Conversely, even a single stumble could reverse the situation under the pressure from Pep Guardiola's squad.

In that context, the showdown at Etihad is not merely a three-point match, but also a true test of Arsenal's mettle on their journey to conquer the Premier League throne.