Mikel Arteta ‘respects’ Jurgen Klopp’s belief that only Manchester City can challenge for Premier League title

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says he ‘respects’ Jurgen Klopp’s belief that only Manchester City can truly say they are targeting the Premier League title this coming season, but he is eager to push them as far as possible once again.

Pep Guardiola’s side enjoyed a 12-game winning run at the backend of last season that secured their fourth title in the last five years, while they also won the FA Cup and the Champions League to complete a famous treble.

Klopp’s Belief

Although Arsenal topped the table for much of the campaign and finished just five points behind the champions, Liverpool boss Klopp believes City are the only team who are guaranteed to be in the title race.

‘Nobody besides maybe City can have the real target to become champions again this year,’ said the German coach earlier this week.

Arteta’s Response

Arteta is more than aware of the almighty task facing any side looking to challenge City but is aspiring to reach those same, lofty standards with Arsenal.

Asked if he agreed with Klopp’s remarks, Arteta replied: ‘Well I respect that. Obviously they have shown consistency over the years and they merit that respect from everybody for what they’ve done.

‘If you want to challenge for the championship you know the total points you’re going to be needing and this is unheard of in this league for the last 100 years.