'We need to make sure the journey is beautiful' - Arteta urges Arsenal calm as Gunners aim to avoid three-game winless league run

Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal to stay focused and confident despite recent Premier League setbacks, as the Gunners continue their push for a first league title since 2004.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on his players to remain calm and confident as the club looks to avoid a three-game winless run in the Premier League, insisting recent setbacks must not derail their title ambitions.

The Gunners’ recent home defeat to Manchester United has cut their lead at the top of the table to four points, with Manchester City and Aston Villa closing the gap. Despite the pressure, Arteta stressed that perspective and belief remain crucial as Arsenal chase their first league title since the historic 2003–04 “Invincibles” season.

What Arteta said

Speaking to reporters ahead of Arsenal’s away trip to Leeds United, Arteta acknowledged the disappointment within the squad but highlighted the importance of understanding the club’s current position.

“It’s about understanding where you are. When you lose a game, you have a lot of feelings, especially with this group, because they are so competitive. They search for excellence, and when you don’t reach it, you ask questions, and we did that,” Arteta said.

He added, “My role is to bring optimism and the reality of where we are. Our club has a long history, and to find the position we are in by February, it’s hard to find.”

Despite recent league frustrations, Arsenal continue to enjoy a successful campaign on multiple fronts. They progressed to the Champions League round of 16 with a perfect record in the league phase, capped by a thrilling 3-2 victory over Kairat Almaty in midweek.

The North London side also remained firmly in contention in both the FA Cup and League Cup, underlining the overall progress made under Arteta this season.

He said, “We’re doing a lot of things so well. Of course, we want to improve, but we have to do it with self-confidence and conviction that we’re on the right path.”

Arteta confirmed that defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba are fit to face Leeds after being rested due to minor injuries in Europe. The only absentee remains 16-year-old winger Max Dowman, who is still sidelined.

Despite the growing pressure of the title race, Arteta wants his players to perform with freedom rather than fear.

He added, “We need to make sure the journey is beautiful. What lies ahead is great, and everyone needs to be part of it, with good humour, optimism, and enjoyment.”

Although Arsenal thrashed Leeds 5-0 earlier in the season, the Yorkshire side has improved significantly in recent weeks. Leeds have recorded impressive results against Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United, losing just once in their last 11 league matches and moving clear of the relegation zone.