Mikel Arteta ahead of Manchester City: we have to show what we are capable of

Arsenal face one of their toughest games of the season on Sunday when they face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League. Both teams have had great starts to the season and fans expect them to challenge for the title once again. In his pre-match press conference, Arteta spoke about the team’s preparation, injuries and his expectations ahead of this crucial game.

• Arsenal are looking forward to taking on Manchester City and believe they can succeed
• The team managed a tough week with two away games and kept a clean sheet twice
• Captain Martin Odegaard’s injury remains uncertain and his return will be decided in the coming days

Arteta on Arsenal’s chances against City

After three away games in six days, the team is tired but optimistic. “We played two tough away games and now we have another big challenge on Sunday. We are looking forward to it,” Arteta said with a smile. Arsenal returned with a clean sheet after their Champions League draw against Atalanta, which Arteta said boosts confidence in the team’s consistency.

“We’re showing great consistency, which is important,” Arteta added, looking back at the two maintained zeros. But the focus now shifts to City, who have dominated the Premier League in recent years.

Injuries and comebacks

Arsenal have to do without key player Odegaard, who is not playing because of an ankle injury. “Martin will not play for a long time, we have to wait for the ankle to heal,” the coach said. Losing the captain is a big blow but the team is banking on the return of Declan Rice. After a red card penalty, he is available again and ready to play.

On the Manchester City side, the team is struggling with the absence of Nathan Aké, while Kevin De Bruyne remains uncertain after his Champions League injury. Still, City have enough quality players like Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden who are poised to take over as key figures.

Focus on Manchester City

City have a day more to regenerate, but the Arsenal coach makes no excuses. “We wanted to have the same amount of time to prepare as them, but we have to adapt and use the time we have,” he said.

He realises City pose the biggest challenge: “We are going to the field of the champions, a team that has shown it is incredibly consistent. That’s a challenge we want to meet.”

Arsenal are preparing for a tough game, but they are confident. The team knows it must perform at its best to compete with City and show it is ready to fight for the title. You can read the full press conference on the official website.

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