Arteta warns Arsenal to preserve reputation in Mansfield clash

Mikel Arteta has cautioned his Arsenal players to make sure the teams standing remains intact during their FA Cup encounter with Mansfield this Saturday.

Arsenals squad suffered a defeat in the 2018 FA Cup against Nottingham Forest, who were in the Championship at the time, and they have only advanced past the fourth round once since 2017.

The FA Cup victory from 2020 stands as Arsenals most recent piece of silverware, with mounting expectations to break a six year trophy drought.

The current Premier League frontrunners are set to take on Manchester City in the League Cup final at Wembley on March 22, as they aim for a possible quadruple.

Mansfield, from the third division, have already overcome Premier League side Burnley this season and secured a victory away to Sheffield United.

If Nigel Cloughs side pulls off a massive fifth round shock on Saturday, Arteta worries it might impact the remainder of their schedule.

We have been eliminated several times in tough circumstances and it leaves a dreadful sensation, Arteta remarked, recalling their exit to Manchester United in last years third round. 

It seems to harm your image. We have no desire to experience that again.

Arsenal have triumphed over League One team Wigan in the fourth round and also bested Championship outfit Portsmouth, marking their most extended cup progression since lifting the trophy six years back.

I have spent sufficient time in this nation to realise that holding favourite status carries no weight, Arteta stated.

In that particular tournament, under those conditions, at that venue, I am aware they will possess the confidence and determination to defeat us. We must prepare thoroughly.