Arteta Demands Arsenal to Win Against Manchester City

Previously, Arsenal managed to advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League. (Photo: IG/@arsenal)

JAKARTA - Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta insists his team will not play for a draw when facing Manchester City in the crucial match for the English League title at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, April 19.

He ensured that The Gunners would give their all to win.

"We want to win the game. We came to win. We didn't even talk about a draw. We have to win and we are preparing for it," Arteta told The Guardian, Saturday, as reported by ANTARA.

"I won't spend a single second thinking about the draw. We always prepare for every match to win," he added.

Arsenal are currently six points ahead of Manchester City, despite having played one game more.

The draw could actually bring them closer to the title. However, Arsenal's performance has recently declined in terms of sharpness.

They have scored just three goals in their last five games, including a 0-2 defeat to City in the League Cup final on March 22.

However, Arsenal's main strength this season lies in the solidity of the back line. Arteta also confirmed that his team will not play defensively in the upcoming matches.

He also dismissed the notion that Arsenal would play too cautiously again like when they drew 0-0 at the Etihad in 2024, which was criticized by City midfielder Rodri.

"We're not going to plan a game like that because we've never done it. Sometimes opponents do force you to play deeper, and against City that can happen. That's the reality," he said.

Arteta also highlighted the importance of consistency after achieving certain results. According to him, a draw will only mean if it is followed by maximum performance in the next matches.

On the other hand, Arsenal is still overshadowed by a number of injury problems. Bukayo Saka is confirmed to be absent due to an Achilles injury, while the condition of Jurrirn Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, and Martin Odegaard is still uncertain.

The good news is that Noni Madueke has the opportunity to be available again after having problems when facing Sporting.