Mikel Arteta has opened up on the lessons Arsenal have learned from last season’s setbacks against Aston Villa.
Arsenal travel to face Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday evening in an early test of their title credentials. The Gunners lost both league meetings against Unai Emery’s team in 2023/24, including a costly 2-0 loss at the Emirates during the title run-in.
Arsenal also failed to score in both encounters with The Villans and Arteta admits his team ‘have to do better’ ahead of their trip to Villa Park. Villa were the only team to beat Arsenal twice in the Premier League last season.
“They scored and we didn’t – very simple,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference when asked why Arsenal lost both games to this weekend’s opponents.
“In two games even though we had an enormous amount of chances to do that and that was one of the big differences, one of the details we have analysed. We have to do better tomorrow. They are a really good side, really well coached.
“They dominate every aspect of the game. When you give them space they run they are phenomenal and when they have to find space they are able to do that. Set pieces they highlighted – that’s why they did what they did [last season].”
After consecutive runners-up finishes in the Premier League, Arteta outlined his belief that Arsenal can win the title in 2024/25.
“I always had a feeling and belief within our players that I have to trust. That is the only way to get the best out of your team and individuals.
“To achieve what level – that’s something else. Obviously we know what we want and we [need to] perform at the right level to achieve it and tomorrow is no different. It’s the second game and that’s what we are going to do.”
Arsenal are understood to be nearing the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad with an agreement reached on a €38.5m fee for the Spain international. Arteta, however, refused to discuss the deal until it has been completed.
“I cannot talk about any player that is not with us. There is still time in the market, both ways, for all the managers of the teams here and you can tell how busy it’s getting.
“I don’t assume. Full focus is on the players at the moment, on the big match tomorrow at Aston Villa.
