Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has played down suggestions that his side would comfortably defeat West Ham United ahead of their Premier League clash at the Emirates this Saturday.
With the Gunners firmly in the title race, many expect them to take all three points against a struggling West Ham side still adapting to life under new manager Graham Potter. However, Arteta dismissed any notions of an easy win when confronted with the claim that Arsenal would beat the Hammers “nine times out of ten.”
During a press conference, talkSPORT’s Ian Abrahams presented the bold prediction, prompting a measured and respectful response from Arteta.
“I don’t think anyone’s thinking that way because we are very experienced in how difficult every opponent is in the Premier League,” Arteta said via Arsenal’s official YouTube channel. “We have the history of what happened against them last season at The Emirates, and the history of what happened with Graham (Potter) against us at The Emirates.”
Despite being heavy favorites, Arsenal will have to navigate the game without key attacking stars, including Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz. With their attacking depth stretched, West Ham might fancy their chances of pulling off another shock result.
The Hammers have proven to be a thorn in Arsenal’s side in recent seasons, having beaten them at the Emirates last campaign, a result that derailed the Gunners’ title push. West Ham fans will be hoping history repeats itself as they look to disrupt their London rivals once again.
Can West Ham defy the odds and frustrate Arsenal once more? Or will Arteta’s men strengthen their title bid with a commanding victory? Saturday’s showdown will provide all the answers.
