Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has insisted his team are still firmly in the Premier League title race, despite recently surrendering top spot to Manchester City. The Gunners now trail City on goals scored after the defending champions secured a 1-0 victory over Burnley on Wednesday, leaving both sides level on points but City ahead in the standings.
Arteta's Confidence Remains High
Speaking ahead of Saturday's crucial clash against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta expressed unwavering belief in his squad. "Win tomorrow, game one win and then we'll be much closer. I have belief in our players and our people and what we want to achieve," he said. "The energy raised and the belief raised. The clarity in what we have to do it cannot be better. Five games to go. Tomorrow game one, all in, let's go for it. Two big competitions to play for and everything to play for. If somebody had told us at the beginning of the season, we would have taken it. We are so excited."
Just weeks ago, Arsenal were considered overwhelming favorites to claim their first league title since 2004 after building a nine-point lead. However, recent defeats to Bournemouth and Manchester City have eroded that advantage, leaving their destiny no longer entirely in their own hands.
Injury Boost Ahead of Newcastle
Arsenal are set to receive a significant boost with the expected return of Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori from injury for the Newcastle match. Saka has missed five games due to an Achilles problem, while Calafiori has been sidelined for three matches. Their return could provide the impetus needed to reignite the team's title challenge.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, appear to be hitting form at a crucial stage of the season. They have climbed to the top of the table for the first time since August 2025. In contrast, Arsenal have managed just one win in their last six matches across all competitions.
Arteta's Call to Action
Arteta, who won a league title on goal difference during his playing career, urged his side to focus on the remaining fixtures. "Everything you have, you have to put it on the table, and you have to make it happen," he added.
With both the Premier League title race and a Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid still to play for, Arsenal face a decisive period in their season. The Gunners can return to first place if they avoid defeat against Newcastle on Saturday.
