EPL: Arteta optimistic Arsenal can instill a sense of fear among competitors in the title race
Mikel Arteta aspires for his Arsenal squad to cultivate a reputation akin to the legendary "Invincibles" of the 2003/04 season as they strive for their first Premier League title in two decades.
With just eight games remaining in a gripping three-way title race, the Gunners sit on 68 points, trailing Liverpool by two points and leading defending champions Manchester City by one.
After leading for most of the previous campaign but stumbling towards the end, Arsenal has found their stride, winning nine out of their last ten league matches.
Arteta, aged 42, recalls facing Arsene Wenger's reigning champions in May 2005 during Everton's 7-0 loss at Arsenal's former stadium, Highbury.
Wenger's undefeated team in the 2003/04 Premier League season remains the last English champions.
Arteta aims for his team to instill similar fear in opponents, saying, "I've been in the tunnel playing in a different shirt and looking at the Invincibles. You had a feeling 'tonight is going to be really tough.' Hopefully, we can create that."
Ahead of their match against Brighton on Saturday, the Arsenal manager expressed confidence in top-scorer Bukayo Saka's performance but noted the England winger might be a doubt for the weekend after missing their recent 2-0 win over Luton.
Saka, who has scored 16 goals in all competitions this season, sustained a muscle injury during the goalless draw against Manchester City. This absence marked only the second league game he has missed this season.
Arteta expressed optimism about Saka's potential impact, stating, "I'm super positive. I think he's going to excel and be incredibly influential."
"He's incredibly determined and eager for success. He's excited about what lies ahead and continues to improve," Arteta continued.
"It's typical to have minor setbacks, such as knocks, but he's shown resilience over the past few years and continues to perform exceptionally well."
Additionally, Arteta granted Emile Smith Rowe his third start of the season against Luton.
Injuries have significantly impeded the progress of the 23-year-old academy graduate, who joined the first team around the same period as Saka but has faced numerous setbacks.
"Don't dwell on 'what ifs'," Arteta advised. "Instead, utilize it as a learning experience. Reflect on the highs and lows, and use it to clarify your goals, ultimately becoming a stronger player."
"When he's fit and performing at his peak, he's an exceptional player," Arteta emphasized.
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