As Arsenal prepare for a highly anticipated clash at Anfield this weekend, manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that his squad will respectfully provide a guard of honour for the newly crowned Premier League champions, Liverpool.
In a pre-match рrеѕѕ conference, Artеtа еxрrеѕѕеd аdmіrаtіоn fоr Lіvеrрооl’ѕ іmрrеѕѕіvе саmраіgn аnd ѕаіd that thе Reds fully dеѕеrvе thіѕ trіbutе.
“They’ve earned it. They’ve been the best and most consistent team throughout the season,” Arteta stated firmly, showing no hesitation in praising their rivals.
Arsenal Respect for a Worthy Champion
The gesture of a guard of honour—where players of the opposing team line up to applaud the league winners as they enter the pitch—has long been a tradition in English football. It is a symbolic act of sportsmanship, acknowledging the achievements of the champions. According to reports from the Mirror, Arsenal have already made arrangements to pay this tribute before kickoff.
Arteta also took a moment to commend Arne Slot, who stepped into Liverpool’s managerial role and managed to uphold the club’s high standards, leading them to Premier League glory in his debut season.
“Slot has done a fantastic job. He’s kept the identity of the team alive while adding his own touch. It’s no small feat to come in and win the league immediately,” Arteta added.
No Bitterness, Only Recognition
Despite Arsenal’s own strong performances over the last two seasons, Arteta harboured no bitterness about falling short. In previous comments, he noted that Arsenal would have been champions if they had replicated their recent points totals in other seasons. Still, Arteta emphasized that credit must be given where it’s due.
“If someone does better than us, we must acknowledge that. That’s what sport is about—pushing ourselves to close the gap, not making excuses,” he said to SBOTOP.
A Motivating Moment for Arsenal
Arteta believes that witnessing Liverpool’s moment of triumph firsthand could be a valuable lesson for his players. He described it as a moment that could fuel their desire to improve and come back stronger.
“Sometimes, pain is the greatest motivator,” he remarked. “Watching another team celebrate can hurt—but it can also be the spark that ignites your hunger.”
He also addressed Arsenal’s run in the Champions League, where they exited in the semifinals. Despite the disappointment, Arteta remained positive and pointed to their strong performances throughout the tournament.
“If you look at the numbers—goal difference, chances created—we were arguably the most dominant side. But football isn’t just about potential or stats; it’s about delivering when it counts.”
More Than Just a Match
Sunday’s encounter at Anfield will be about more than points or pride. It will serve as a symbol of sportsmanship and the competitive spirit that makes the Premier League special. For Arteta аnd Arѕеnаl, gіvіng Lіvеrрооl thе rесоgnіtіоn thеу deserve rеflесtѕ their оwn values аѕ a team buіlt оn іntеgrіtу, grоwth, аnd аmbіtіоn.
Although Arsenal will end the season without silverware, they are showing that true professionalism goes beyond winning titles—it’s also about honour, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
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