Arsenal remain 'convinced' they will win Premier League, insists Mikel Arteta

Arsenal continue to hold a three-point advantage at the summit of the standings, yet Manchester City possess an additional match and hold the initiative in terms of recent form.

The north London outfit has endured defeats in four straight domestic fixtures, thus squandering opportunities to break a six-year wait for silverware in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

Past scenarios may unfold once more, since Arteta's squad surrendered leads against City during the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons before settling for second place.

Arteta, however, maintained that his squad's conviction remains firm following a notably stronger showing at Manchester City's home venue.

"I believe today, I believe on Wednesday, I believed a week ago because I see them every day and I know the level that we have," said Arteta.

"But today, if they need to be more convinced, I think they are now more convinced. We are talking about it in the dressing room.

"It's a new league now. We have three points of advantage, they have the game in hand.

"Everything is still to play for. We know how much we want it and we are not going to stop."

On fixtures, Arsenal face a potentially less demanding schedule compared to City, although they must contend with the added burden of being England's sole remaining contender in the Champions League.

Arteta's charges await a tough semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid in their bid to secure European glory for the very first time.

Yet Arteta rejected the idea that he needs to motivate his players as the season nears its climax.

"If I have to pick the players up to win the Premier League with five games to go, in our hands, and be in the semi-finals of the Champions League, I think I should be at home," he said.

"So it's not the case, it's not needed. It's never been needed, even in difficult moments. So we go again, that's for sure."