Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal are well-equipped to thrive as the chasers in this season’s Premier League title race, having previously struggled under the pressure of leading from the front.
The Gunners face West Ham on Saturday, knowing a win would cut the gap to league leaders Liverpool to just five points ahead of their crucial clash with Manchester City on Sunday.
After a strong 15-game unbeaten run, Arsenal have re-established themselves in the title conversation after fears they might drift out of contention.
Unlike the past two seasons where they led before fading late Arteta hopes his side can flip the script by applying the pressure this time around. “I prefer to depend on myself, but chasing can build momentum,” he said. “Suddenly, we feel really strong, and that belief can work in our favor.”
However, Arsenal still have attacking concerns, with injuries limiting their firepower. While an unlikely brace from Mikel Merino secured victory against Leicester last weekend, Arteta is urging more from his available forwards especially Raheem Sterling.
Sterling, who joined on loan from Chelsea in August, has struggled for minutes but now has an opportunity due to the absence of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz.
“We need him, and he has to step up,” Arteta said. “We’re all behind him because we know how important he can be for the team.”
With the title race heating up, Arsenal will need every available player at their best to keep the pressure on Liverpool and Manchester City.