Arteta praises Arsenals outstanding opening period after leaders defeat Burnley

Mikel Arteta described Arsenals first half performance during their 2-0 victory over Burnley on Saturday as one of the finest under his management, allowing the Premier League frontrunners to increase their advantage at the summit.

Goals from Viktor Gyokeres and Declan Rice in the opening period at Turf Moor secured a ninth consecutive triumph across all tournaments for the Gunners.

Their halftime lead might have been greater, yet Burnley keeper Martin Dubravka thwarted Bukayo Saka on two occasions.

Arteta considered it the strongest initial 45 minutes since taking charge in 2019.

We began exceptionally strong. The opening half ranks among our top efforts, with two goals, several major opportunities created, and no shots faced, he remarked.

That set the foundation, as the second half saw our levels dip, particularly in possession and forward pushes. Still, our defensive work remained outstanding.

Burnley posed little danger to the north London outfit, managing their initial shot via Florentino Luis header in the 73rd minute, followed by Marcus Edwards free kick striking the upright in added time.

Gyokeres opened the scoring off a corner, boosting Arsenals league leading non penalty set piece goals to 12 this term.

Arteta offered particular acclaim to the forward for snapping a five match league dry spell.

However, the Swedish forward faces uncertainty for Tuesdays Champions League clash with Slavia Prague, having exited at halftime with a muscle issue.

It was among his finest outings with us, Arteta noted of the recent Sporting Lisbon acquisition.

His overall showing was remarkable beyond the goal, and we substituted him due to a minor muscular discomfort.

His intense pressing, smart positioning, deft touches, runs in behind, play connection, and transition support were all superb.

He was hitting peak form. Its regrettable he sensed an issue.