Mikel Arteta Aims for Arsenal Victory at Anfield to Top Premier League Table
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful that his team can secure a long-awaited victory at Anfield and top the Premier League table on Christmas Day. Arteta compares playing away at Liverpool to being stuck on a spin cycle in a washing machine, emphasizing the challenge his team faces.
Arsenal’s Struggle at Anfield
Arsenal has not won at Anfield since September 2012 when Arteta was part of the winning side. The Spaniard is well aware of the difficulties of playing at Liverpool, having experienced it during his time with Everton as well. However, a victory in this match would keep Arsenal at the top of the league during the Christmas period.
Preparing for the Challenge
Arteta acknowledges that playing at Anfield is different, just like playing at Old Trafford. He describes the atmosphere at both stadiums as beautiful and historically significant. He also mentions the feeling of being overwhelmed by the opposition’s pressure, comparing it to being trapped in a washing machine. However, Arteta believes that such situations are learning experiences and can be overcome.
Arteta’s Strategy
When asked how to counter the challenge of playing at Anfield, Arteta wants his team to put the hosts in a spin by using their own powerful “washing machine.” He refers to a touchline spat with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp two years ago, which seemed to energize the home supporters. However, Arteta assures that there won’t be any trouble on the touchline this time as he has already received four bookings this season.
Arsenal’s Hopes for Anfield Victory
Arteta has set a challenge for his Arsenal side to end their 11-year winless streak at Anfield. Despite the historical difficulties, Arteta has already overseen wins at other challenging stadiums like Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge, and the Emirates Stadium. He believes that to be at the top, his team must go to these places and dominate. Winning at Anfield is the next step in their journey.