Arsenal Press Conference: Arteta Talks Emirates Atmosphere, Liverpool Clash and Injuries

Mikel Arteta faced the media ahead of one of Arsenal’s toughest tests of the season, with Liverpool one of only two teams to have beaten the Gunners so far this campaign.

Following a hard-fought victory over Bournemouth, Arsenal head into the fixture looking to extend their winning run and further strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League table. With recent meetings between the two sides often delivering drama and intensity, Arteta addressed the scale of the challenge, team news, and the importance of the Emirates atmosphere.

Below are some of the standout quotes from Arteta’s press conference.

On Facing Liverpool

Arteta highlighted the magnitude of the occasion and the quality of the opposition:

“It is a massive game against the champions of the last Premier League. We have a point to prove. We’re going to have our supporters here early, before eight o’clock, everybody creating an amazing atmosphere.”

He added: “We are at the top of the table and we play at home against a really good opponent. We want to maintain our position and, in order to do that, we are going to have to be excellent throughout the game to deserve to win.”

Arteta also underlined how fine the margins are at this level: “The margins are very small. Liverpool have a great manager and a sensational structure. They understand exactly what they have to do with the players they select, and they can play in different ways. Those details are what make them different.”

Fitness Updates

Arteta confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori and Christian Mosquera remain unavailable: “They are out, but they will be back pretty soon. They’re at the final stage of their rehab and, if everything goes well, hopefully they will be back very soon.”

On Kai Havertz, Arteta offered an encouraging update: “We are monitoring his load. He has been out for a long time, but he’s very close. He trained again this morning, so hopefully we will have him available and the best version of Kai very soon.”

On the Atmosphere and the Importance of Supporters

Arteta stressed the impact the home crowd can have on major occasions: “The fans have been unbelievable this season. It makes such a difference. The level of energy, commitment, confidence and desire we show in every action is transmitted by them, and we need them tomorrow with every ball.”

He expanded on the emotional lift supporters provide:“There is nothing like it. You become a different player – your emotional state is better, your energy level is higher and your confidence grows. They drive you to play with aggression and determination, and that lifts the whole team.”

On Trossard’s Form and Player of the Month Recognition

Praising Leandro Trossard, Arteta said: “His level of understanding and consistency has been exceptional. He’s really clicking with the team in every aspect of the game and he provides something different to what we have.”

On Liverpool’s Season and Title Expectations

Despite suggestions of a turbulent campaign for Liverpool, Arteta dismissed any doubts about their quality: “That’s on paper. I still think they are a superb team. You also have to understand the context they’ve had with injuries and how difficult this league is for all of us. My opinion of them hasn’t changed.”

Arsenal face a demanding test against Liverpool, with Arteta hoping his side can respond to their earlier defeat this season and maintain their grip at the top of the Premier League table.