LONDON – Mikel Arteta has called for calm and constant improvement as Arsenal prepares to host Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium this Sunday. Despite receiving high praise from Pep Guardiola, who labeled the Gunners the “best team in the world,” Arteta insisted his squad is still far from reaching its full potential.
“We are doing many things well, but we are far from perfect,” Arteta stated during his pre-match press conference. “To win the major trophies we crave, we need to dominate every single phase of the game. We are constantly looking to improve.”
The Carrick Factor Arteta expressed particular caution regarding the “new-look” Manchester United under interim manager Michael Carrick. Following United’s stunning 2-0 derby win over Manchester City, Arteta noted a clear shift in the Red Devils’ intensity.
“With Michael’s arrival, you can see new ideas and a spike in intensity. Their attitude in the Manchester derby was impressive,” the Arsenal boss admitted. “We expect an extremely difficult game, but playing at home will be vital for us.”
Squad Boost: Calafiori and Hincapié Return In a significant boost for the Premier League leaders, defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapié have returned to full training following muscle injuries. While Arteta remained cautious about their inclusion in the starting XI, their presence bolsters an Arsenal side that is currently on a 12-game unbeaten run and has already secured early qualification for the Champions League Round of 16 with 21 points.
With a seven-point lead at the top of the table, a victory on Sunday would put Arsenal in a commanding position to end their long wait for a Premier League title.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
