Arteta admits that criticism of his set-piece tactics is part of the job.

Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, arrived in the press room with a clear and determined message as the Gunners prepare to face Brighton this week. With an impressive run of 11 games unbeaten away from home in all competitions and a narrow victory over Chelsea that maintained a 5-point lead at the top of the table, Arteta is aware of the pressure surrounding the title race, which is not new to him.

In response to criticism directed at his corner tactics this season, Arteta did not hesitate to state: “It’s part of the job. I said we want to score more, and we ended up suffering. This is the trajectory.” The manager acknowledges that the pressure of the title race can affect the team’s performance, but emphasizes that there are various factors to consider. “There are many factors that contribute to this (the pressure of the title race), some of them related to us, needing to be clearer or willing to do certain things. But the opponent also has their role.”

As Arsenal prepares for the clash with Brighton, Arteta also shared updates on the fitness of several players. “Especially Kai (Havertz). He was part of the session, so we will have to wait and see if he is available and in what condition,” the manager revealed. “Martin (Odegaard) is another one we are monitoring. We will see how he feels to perform certain actions.” However, not all players are ready; Ben (White) will not be available, while Max (Dowman) is already fit.

Regarding Declan Rice, Arteta expressed hope: “I hope so. He was much better today. We haven’t really trained because we only have two days to prepare for the game, so I hope he is better tomorrow.”

Finally, while several players are set to return to the team, the coach did not hold back in praising Brighton, who could move up to 8th place with a victory. “A very good team, in the way they are coached. What they want to do, they believe in what they want to do.”

With the pressure mounting and expectations rising, Arteta and Arsenal are ready to face another challenge in their quest for a title that has eluded them for over two decades, while football fans eagerly await to see if the coach’s strategy can finally bring the long-desired success to Emirates Stadium.