Arteta Delivers Motivational Message After Arsenal Stumble
Mikel Arteta vowed that Arsenal will compete with "courage and conviction" throughout the remaining campaign following their unexpected loss to Manchester United, which has hindered their bid for the Premier League trophy.
Arsenal, still leading by four points over runners-up Manchester City, will welcome Kazakh outfit Kairat Almaty in the Champions League on Wednesday, seeking to finish the group stage unbeaten.
The Gunners, boasting a perfect seven victories from seven matches in Europe this term, have already booked their spot in the knockout rounds, thus sidestepping a challenging qualifier in the coming weeks.
They continue to vie for success in the two home cup tournaments as well.
During his pre-game media briefing on Tuesday, Arsenal manager Arteta addressed how his squad has responded to the shocking 3-2 home reversal against United on Sunday, marking their initial defeat at the Emirates this season.
"The response has been superb," the Spanish coach stated. "We allowed some time to cool off, to stop and contemplate, posing two key queries.
"First, what are our emotions, and what am I feeling? Second, how shall we approach the upcoming four months?
"It proved truly inspiring and uplifting, for the outcome was straightforward – we have merited our strong standing across four competitions."
Arsenals recent mishap versus Michael Carricks revitalised United came on the heels of goalless stalemates with Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.
Yet Arteta assured that the Gunners will remain bold in pursuit of their first Premier League success since 2004.
"Over the next four months, we will compete with joy, immense bravery, and the firm belief that victory is ours," he declared.
"This mindset will guide us, and I simply urge everyone connected to the club, particularly the fans, to join us on this journey."
William Saliba and Jurrien Timber will miss the Almaty clash owing to minor injuries, while Mikel Merino and Declan Rice sit out through suspension.