Arteta hopes Arsenal can replicate outstanding performance

The 28th round of the 2024/25 Premier League will stage another focus game, and the "Gunners" Arsenal will go to Old Trafford to challenge the "Red Devils" Manchester United. Arteta said that he was happy with the team's performance against PSV Eindhoven earlier, and he also hoped that the team could continue to replicate its outstanding performance.

After a 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest in the last round of the Premier League, Arsenal currently ranks second in the standings with 54 points, with 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss in the last 5 rounds.

However, in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16, Arsenal defeated Eindhoven 7-1 with goals from Timber, Nwaneri, Merino, Odegaard, Trossard and Calafiori, and successfully gained the advantage of advancing to the quarterfinals.

Speaking of that game, Arsenal coach Arteta said, “This is a wonderful day for us. The team showed excellent form in this important event that we have high hopes for. The way and result of the game inspired everyone, but unfortunately, it has become a thing of the past. The most important thing now is the preparation and training we have done, and how to work hard to replicate the outstanding performance.”

“We need to pay attention to threats from different positions. We lost several wingers who were very threatening in the final third, so we are also exploring different options. Fortunately, this team is very adaptable. Many players have high football intelligence. They understand what to do in different situations, especially the running positions under certain tactical arrangements. Our offense in the last game was indeed very smooth, and many combinations and actions made it difficult for the opponent to defend.”

In addition, Arsenal defender Calafiori has contributed two goals and one assist in the Premier League so far this season, and also scored a goal in the Champions League.

Arteta said that Calafiori's attack was eye-catching. He said, "He does have this ability. For a defender, he can move smoothly in different positions. This really impressed me. His way of playing is difficult to predict, and sometimes even a little chaotic, which makes him more difficult to defend on the court."

"His nose for goal surprised me. At first I didn't know he had such an ability, but in daily training, I found that he could indeed create opportunities."