Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal are optimistic over their Premier League title chances heading into the final weekend.
Arsenal host Everton on Sunday in their final fixture of the Premier League season. The Gunners have ensured the title race will go down to the wire, though trail Manchester City by two points heading into the last round of games.
Given their superior goal difference, Arsenal will win the Premier League for the first time in 20 years if Arteta’s side win and Manchester City fail to beat West Ham at the Etihad.
Ahead of what could be a dramatic conclusion to the season, Arteta said his side are optimistic of fulfilling their title ‘dream’.
“It is one of the biggest weeks for many of us. Now is the most important moment,” Arteta said in his pre-match press conference.
“We are excited and can’t wait for Sunday. We are very optimistic in terms of outcome.
“The hope is there. We have to do our job because Everton will be tough. We have to prove again that we can be better than the opponent. Then we have to wish for West Ham to have a really good day and help us to fulfil our dream.
“The only thing we have discussed is giving ourselves the opportunity to live a beautiful day. The dream is still alive because it is football.
“We have to play like we do every single week and understand that, for the dream to happen, we have to win and then hope that West Ham will help us. Whatever happens it will be emotional on the day.”
Manchester City are unbeaten in 18 home games in the Premier League this season but Arteta said West Ham will provide tough opposition for the champions.
“It is really difficult to beat any opposition in the Premier League, especially when something is at stake. But that is not in our control.
“They are a little bit of a step closer than us but they will play a really tough opponent. I am sure [West Ham] will be at it and can help us to achieve our dream.”
Arteta could be handed a favour, and the title, by former manager David Moyes. Arteta played under the West Ham boss at Everton, though said he has not spoken to the Scot regarding Sunday’s game.
“I don’t need to do that,” he said.
“He has been instrumental and important to both my footballing career and managerial. He could help us to fulfil my personal dream.”
