Arsenal took a significant step forward in the Premier League title race with a 2-0 victory over Leicester City, a result that Mikel Arteta believes sends a clear message to their rivals. The Gunners, led by a remarkable brace from Mikel Merino, reduced the gap to league leaders Liverpool to just four points while extending their unbeaten streak in the league to 15 matches.
This win came despite the absence of Kai Havertz, who suffered an injury during Arsenal’s mid-season training camp in Dubai. Arteta praised his team’s resilience and determination, emphasizing that their performance demonstrated their intent to fight for the title.
Arteta: “We’re Here and We Really Want It”
Speaking after the game, Arteta was quick to highlight the significance of the victory, particularly given the mounting injury concerns in the squad.
“Big win, obviously we hadn’t played a game for ten days now after the break,” Arteta said. “Today is a day, with all the questions that have been raised obviously with the injuries, to make a statement, we’re here and we really want it.”
The match itself unfolded in two contrasting halves. Arsenal struggled to assert themselves in the opening 45 minutes, lacking urgency and fluidity in their play. However, after regrouping at halftime, the Gunners found their rhythm and took control, securing the win through Merino’s quickfire double.
“They were two very different halves. The first one, we lacked some urgency, we were inconsistent, especially in simple things. But in the second half, we picked it up and we managed to win the game,” Arteta explained.
Arsenal’s Striker Dilemma and Merino’s Heroics
Without a recognized striker due to Havertz’s injury, Arsenal looked destined for a frustrating goalless draw against a Leicester side struggling in 19th place. However, Arteta’s decision to deploy Merino in an advanced role turned the game around. The Spanish midfielder seized his opportunity, delivering two crucial goals that sealed the victory.
Arteta later revealed that he had a premonition about Merino’s impact. “When he came on, I told him he was gonna score,” he said. “The moment they were defending a little bit deeper and we were more established in the final third, we thought that he could deliver those moments. But it’s easier to say that than get it done!”
Despite Merino’s impressive performance in the striker role, Arteta remained non-committal about using him in that position moving forward. “Let’s enjoy this one, analyze it, and move into the next one,” he said.
The Arsenal boss acknowledged that Merino offers a different skill set compared to Havertz but praised his instincts and ability to read the game. “He is very different, but he’s got that timing. He can smell danger, he can anticipate the situation, and he can execute, obviously.”
Arsenal’s Young Players Stepping Up
With multiple injuries affecting the squad, Arteta highlighted the importance of Arsenal’s young players in stepping up to the challenge. He believes in giving them the freedom to express themselves rather than restricting them due to their inexperience.
“At the moment, the young players are especially important with the injuries that we have. When you see their behavior, naturally how they behave on the pitch, let them go as well. Protect them but also take the handbrake off. If they’re ready to go to that pace, then why stop them because they are 17?”
Arsenal’s commitment to developing young talent has been a defining feature of Arteta’s tenure, and this philosophy is paying dividends as the squad remains competitive despite setbacks.
Arsenal Closing the Gap on Liverpool
The victory over Leicester puts Arsenal in a strong position as they continue to chase Liverpool at the top of the table. The four-point gap means the title race remains wide open, and Arteta is feeling more optimistic about his team’s chances.
“Let’s see what happens now, but we have to do what we can and what is in our control. You come to any ground and it’s just a nightmare, it’s a battle, it’s very difficult, you have to be at your best to win. It’s going to be a long run,” he said.
The unpredictability of the Premier League means every match is a challenge, but Arsenal’s performance against Leicester demonstrated their ability to grind out results even in difficult circumstances.
A Strong Message to the Rest of the League
Arteta believes this win sends a strong message to Arsenal’s title rivals, reinforcing their determination to push for the championship regardless of the obstacles they face.
“That we really want it, that regardless of what happens or the difficulties we’re going to face, we’re going to give it a real go,” Arteta said. “We’ve been seven, eight months working on that. We’re not going to stop, and let’s see how far we can go.”
With the business end of the season approaching, Arsenal’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges will be crucial. The resilience they showed against Leicester suggests they are ready to fight until the very end.
Looking Ahead
As Arsenal prepares for their next fixtures, the question remains whether Arteta will continue to experiment with Merino in an advanced role or adjust his tactics based on upcoming opponents. Regardless, the Gunners have shown they have the depth and determination to stay in the title race.
Their ability to cope with injuries, integrate young players, and maintain consistency will be the key factors in determining whether they can dethrone Liverpool and claim their first Premier League title since 2004.
One thing is certain: Arsenal has sent a clear statement to the rest of the league—they’re here, and they really want it.
