Arteta calls on Arsenal to compete for the title with greater ambition.

The 2026/27 Premier League season will kick off with its first round of matches, and Arsenal will host newly promoted Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium. At his press conference, Arteta stated that he is more eager for victory than ever before and inspired his players to approach the task with even greater ambition in their pursuit of defending the title.

Last season, Arsenal overcame fierce competition from various teams to claim the Premier League title with a record of 26 wins, 7 draws, and 5 losses. Furthermore, in the earlier Community Shield, Arsenal defeated Manchester City 3-0 thanks to goals from Calafiori, Havertz, and Odegaard, successfully starting their new season with the championship.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said, "I feel great, it feels different, and I hope to get even better. I'm more excited than ever before, and I'm more eager to win than ever before. I can't wait to start the new Premier League season at home in front of the fans, and I hope to put on a great performance and win the game."

“There is no doubt that our players have the desire and ambition to defend the title. But now, we need to earn those through our actions every day. What we need to show is that this desire and ambition is stronger than it was last season, a month ago, and even a week ago when we played Manchester City. We have the ability to continue to improve and grow, and that’s what I feel at the club, especially in the players.”

Speaking about Coventry City, managed by Premier League legend Frank Lampard, Arteta said, "Coventry has achieved extraordinary things, and what Lampard has done is equally incredible. After so many years away from the Premier League, they have earned a place back in the top flight, and in a very special way."

“They are not just where they are now, they absolutely deserve to be where they are. I really like the way they play and the courage they show in every game.”

Arteta continued, "I've watched many of their games because I know we'll be facing Lampard, and he's managed Chelsea before. I think his achievements are extraordinary, and I believe they will show their ambition in the game. We are prepared because we know what kind of opponent we will be facing."

“I’ve seen some videos of me competing against him on the pitch in the past, and I know how good he was. He’s definitely one of my favorite midfielders. He could do so much in midfield, he was almost unstoppable. He was a world-class player among the best.”

Image source: Internet