Mikel Arteta has made it clear: Arsenal cannot afford another stumble.
Saturday’s Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers is being treated inside the club as a defining moment—an opportunity to reset, respond, and reassert their title credentials.
The Gunners arrive at the Emirates on the back of mixed emotions. A convincing UEFA Champions League win away at Club Brugge restored confidence midweek, but that momentum was dented domestically after a costly defeat to Aston Villa. With the Premier League title race tightening at the top, Arteta knows the margin for error is shrinking fast.
“This is about reacting,” Arteta said ahead of the Wolves game.
“When you lose, the first thing you want is the chance to put it right. We did that in the Champions League. Now everything shifts back to the Premier League.”
“After what happened against Aston Villa, this is a massive opportunity. We have to win, we have to perform, and we have to put ourselves back where we belong.”
Gyökeres Still Adapting, Arteta Stays Patient
One of the biggest talking points around Arsenal’s recent performances has been Viktor Gyökeres. Signed with high expectations, the Swedish striker has shown flashes of his quality but is still adjusting to the intensity and physicality of English football.
Arteta was asked whether Arsenal’s tactical structure needs to be reshaped to get the best out of Gyökeres. His answer was measured—and revealing.
“The system and the player have to meet in the middle,” Arteta explained.
“We must put him in the best possible condition to explode and fulfil his potential, but there are also responsibilities that come with the way we play.”
According to Arteta, Gyökeres’ progress is not just about goals—it’s about chemistry.
“The key thing is the connection with the players around him,” he said.
“That understanding, how it grows. Before the injury, he was in a very good place.”
Arteta also pointed out the striker’s difficult start to life in England.
“He arrived in a new league, with different demands, and without a proper pre-season. That’s not easy. Now he’s starting to get momentum again. The goals will come—we’re confident about that.”
Saliba Update and Positive Signs from Gabriel Jesus
Arteta also addressed William Saliba’s ongoing injury issues, confirming they stem from a previous ankle problem that led to further complications.
“It started small,” Arteta said.
“He adjusted the way he was running to protect his ankle, and that caused overload elsewhere. That’s something we see quite often.”
Eventually, the discomfort forced Arsenal to take action.
“At some point it became uncomfortable to continue training and playing. We had to stop him. He’s improving, but we still need to see if he’s ready to train fully with the group.”
There was far more encouraging news regarding Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward made his long-awaited return in the Champions League win at Club Brugge after months out with a knee injury. Coming off the bench, he struck the crossbar and tested the goalkeeper multiple times.
Asked whether Jesus’ return might increase the likelihood of a January exit, Arteta shut the idea down immediately.
“No,” he said firmly.
“Especially with the situation we’re in right now. He showed straight away what he brings. Our focus is on having him here with us.”
Youth Competition and Zubimendi’s Rising Influence
Arteta also touched on the limited minutes given to teenage talent Ethan Nwaneri, sending a clear message about competition within the squad.
“His attitude has been excellent,” Arteta said.
“When he gets opportunities, he has to prove that he deserves more minutes. That’s how it works.”
Meanwhile, the Arsenal manager could not hide his admiration for Martin Zubimendi, who has quietly become one of the most consistent performers in midfield.
“I’m very impressed,” Arteta admitted.
“Coming into this league is difficult—you have to earn your place.”
He highlighted the Spaniard’s complete skill set.
“The variety of actions he has in the game is exceptional. His defensive metrics are outstanding. Offensively, his positioning, how he opens teams up, even his improvement on set-pieces—it’s all there.”
“He’s never satisfied, and that’s exactly what makes him such a strong player.”
Wolves Warning: No Complacency Allowed
Despite Wolves sitting at the bottom of the table, Arteta has warned his players against any sense of complacency.
“In the Premier League, every game is dangerous—especially against teams fighting for results,” he said.
“I know their manager well and how he motivates his players. We know exactly what kind of challenge this will be.”
Arteta also reminded everyone what it truly takes to win the league.
“To win the title, you usually need more than 90 points. That means winning a lot of football matches. You can’t relax.”
Asked how he prevents complacency from creeping in, Arteta was blunt.
“By showing the players who we are—and who the opposition are,” he explained.
“Teams in that position react. They show their teeth. That makes them very dangerous.”
Title Race Still in Arsenal’s Hands
Arsenal currently sit just two points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table. Despite recent criticism, they still boast the league’s best defensive record and rank second in goals scored.
Arteta remains focused on consistency rather than praise.
“Hopefully we win tomorrow,” he said.
“And then after the next few games, we’ll be the best team in terms of form. Our job is simple: try to win every match.”
When asked whether Arsenal deserve more recognition for their performances this season, Arteta offered a familiar response.
“That’s not for me to judge,” he concluded.
“The credit comes at the end of the season. Right now, we’re in a strong position across all competitions. We have to keep building.”
ALSO READ :
