Arteta Embraces “Hunted” Role as Arsenal Aims to Defend Premier League Title

Mikel Arteta expressed enthusiasm for transitioning from being the “hunter” to the “hunted” as Arsenal prepares to defend its Premier League title. The Gunners, who ended a 22-year championship drought last season, kick off their title defense against newly-promoted Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium on Friday.

Prior to their May triumph, Arsenal had finished second in the league for three consecutive seasons. With nine new managers in the Premier League, including Enzo Maresca taking over at Manchester City, Arsenal enters the new campaign as one of the favorites. When asked about the pressures of being the defending champion, Arteta said, “Today, no because we start from scratch, from zero tomorrow, and we are going to have to prove we have the level to go back to that position again.” He emphasized the unpredictability of competing for the title, stating, “Sometimes we were first, sometimes we were chasing it and you never know what is better. If you give me the choice, I want to be first, I want to be hunted and in control of our future rather than depending on somebody else.”

Arsenal seeks to retain the top-flight title for the first time since 1935. Arteta confirmed that Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are “fit to be involved” following minor injury concerns, while Bruno Guimarães is doubtful after being substituted at halftime during last Sunday’s Community Shield victory against Manchester City, having iced his right thigh post-match.

Moreover, Arteta dismissed speculation regarding Myles Lewis-Skelly potentially leaving Arsenal this summer, with recent rumors linking the 19-year-old to Chelsea and Manchester United. Sources have indicated that Lewis-Skelly is committed to Arsenal and aims to secure a position in the first team. Arteta expressed confidence in the young player’s future, stating, “100 per cent.”

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn