Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has described the upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City as a 'huge privilege', despite his team's recent dip in form. Arteta emphasized the significance of this match in the title race, urging his players to embrace the opportunity in what could be a decisive showdown.

Arsenal currently hold a six-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, but City have a game in hand. A victory for City in this encounter could shift the balance of power in their favor as the season enters its final weeks. Arteta stated, 'We have earned the right to be in this position and to be challenging, with an opportunity to win against arguably the best team and best manager this league has ever seen'.

Arsenal are experiencing an untimely loss of form, having lost three of their last five matches across all competitions, including a defeat to City in the League Cup final, a shock FA Cup quarterfinal exit to Southampton, and a home league loss to Bournemouth. However, Arteta expressed confidence in his team's mental fortitude: 'That is a huge privilege. We see this as a big opportunity for us. Who is more privileged to be in this position?'

Arsenal are chasing their first English title since 2004, having finished as runners-up in the last three seasons. In 2023 and 2024, they squandered substantial leads that allowed City to overtake them. Arteta highlighted the importance of a win: 'Winning at this stage, then you are a bit closer. There are six games to go. Obviously, it is a really important one for both teams'.

Arteta did not deny reports of a fire being lit at the club's training ground this week as a motivational ploy, noting that such initiatives often come from the players. Arsenal have failed to win any of their past 10 league games at the Etihad Stadium, losing seven, and Arteta dismissed suggestions of playing for a draw: 'We prepare every game to win, that is why we are where we are, and we are going to continue to do the same'.

Source: www.aljazeera.com