In each of the past four Premier League campaigns, Arsenal have recorded more points than the season before: from a nadir of 56 points (eighth) after Arteta took over midway through the 2019-20, to 61 points (eighth), to 69 points (fifth), to 84 points (second) to 89 points (second) last season, just two points behind champions Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola has denied that a rift has developed in his relationship with Mikel Arteta despite a number of bruising encounters between his Manchester City team and Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta remains ‘uncertain’ whether or not David Raya will be fit enough to make his return against Manchester City on Sunday. The Spain international has been in sensational form this season and had been a near ever-present before he was forced to miss Wednesday’s win over Girona.

After news broke that the Gunners had approached Aston Villa for striker Ollie Watkins, Mikel Arteta was always going to be asked about the striker search in the January transfer window. About 100 miles north at Villa's training ground,

Mikel Arteta has shared another concerning fitness update for Arsenal, confirming that David Raya missed the game against Girona due to injury. The news has sparked worry among Gooners, who were surprised to see Neto starting in goal for the match.