Arsenal's Unbeaten London Derby Streak to be Tested as Arteta Sets Sights on Stamford Bridge
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently spoke at a press conference, shedding light on his team's preparations for their upcoming London derby against Chelsea this weekend.
Arteta emphasised the need for his Gunners to perform at their best in order to secure three points at Stamford Bridge. Notably, Arsenal boasts an impressive record in London derbies, being undefeated in their last 15 encounters. This remarkable streak ranks as the third-longest in Premier League history, following Chelsea's 20-game run between 2004 and 2006 and Arsenal's own incredible 35-game unbeaten stretch from 2001 to 2005.
Taking a measured approach, Arteta stated as BBC Sport quoted: "I go game by game. Chelsea has a good squad, they are at home, and we are in a good moment too. We will try and beat them and see what happens."
Arteta also addressed the situation of Aaron Ramsdale, who is vying to reclaim his spot as the starting goalkeeper from David Raya. Acknowledging the challenges faced by players who are not in the starting lineup, Arteta emphasised the need for hard work and contributions to the team in other ways.
“It is not easy for any player who is not playing as much as they would like. He has got to work hard and try to affect the team in a different way,” he said.
Regarding Bukayo Saka's international commitments, Arteta expressed his support for players representing their national teams. He noted that some players thrive when playing every few days, despite the risk of injuries, and highlighted the players' eagerness to be part of the starting XI.
Asked whether he’d like to see Saka rested since England have qualified for Euro 2024, the Spaniard replied: “I don’t know how they’ll approach it. When our players are fit, we are happy to let them go to the national teams, the players want to go. It is a great opportunity for them.
“Sometimes players feel better when playing every three or four days. They can get knocks, this is part of the game. I’m sure he wants to play [against Chelsea]. I don’t see any player that doesn’t want to be in the starting XI.”
Arteta also commented on the return of former Chelsea duo Jorginho and Kai Havertz to face their former club, recognising the significance of the occasion for them.
“It is a big game," he stated. “I’ve been really impressed by them this season, it is different. They deserve more than what they have in the table. We’ll have to be at our best tomorrow.”
The Gunners boss also expressed hope that William Saliba's toe injury would not hinder him for the rest of the season, with a decision on his involvement dependent on his training progress.
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