Published by Osasere Edomwonyi Ikpoba
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a clear warning ahead of Sunday's high-stakes London derby against Chelsea, insisting that stopping the Blues' potent attack will require a total team effort rather than relying solely on his defensive line. Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta emphasised that containing Chelsea's forwards is a responsibility that must be shared by every player on the pitch.
"Banking will be the responsibility, obviously a team responsibility, more than a defensive one," Arteta declared when asked about neutralising Chelsea's frontline. The warning comes as Arsenal prepare to face a Chelsea side managed by his former colleague Xabi Alonso, who Arteta expects to deploy multiple tactical approaches. "That would depend on a lot of factors and game state is a massive one," Arteta said, acknowledging Chelsea's ability to adapt.
The Arsenal boss also provided mixed updates on his squad's fitness ahead of the clash at the Emirates Stadium. Bruno Guimarães is being assessed after picking up a knock against Aston Villa, while Cristhian Mosquera's withdrawal from that game was described as "more precaution than anything else". There was better news on Ezri Konsa, who is available for selection, and Jurrien Timber, who has made significant progress in training. However, Arteta refused to put a timeline on William Saliba's return, noting that the healing process must be respected.
Arteta also addressed Arsenal's summer transfer business, insisting the club completed its intended deals despite failing to sign another winger. "The window is closed and I prefer to look at all the incredible things that we have in this squad," he said. He expressed confidence in Bukayo Saka's form and paid tribute to departing players Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, who has joined Borussia Dortmund.
On facing Alonso, Arteta described it as a "beautiful thing" to compete against a former colleague at such a high level. He also praised Chelsea's signing of Emiliano Martinez, a goalkeeper he knows well from their time together at Arsenal. With the transfer window closed and injuries to manage, Arteta's message was clear: Arsenal must unite as a collective to overcome Chelsea's threat and secure a vital victory in the early title race.
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