EPL: Mikel Arteta talks tough ahead of Everton clash

As the English Premier League returns after the season’s first international break, Arsenal are gearing up for a clash against Everton.

The Gunners are hoping to break a six-year away-day curse against the side. The reigning London giants were defeated 1-0 last season, by Everton’s manager Sean Dyche.

The underperformance marked the third consecutive loss for the Gunners at Everton, all by a narrow margin, with their last victory dating back to October 2017.

The North London side now enters Sunday’s fixture with the euphoria of their recent 3-1 victory over Manchester United.

With the looming return of the Champions League and a North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on the horizon, maintaining their current form is crucial for Arsenal.

In his reaction, manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the importance of the upcoming fixture, stating, “I’m really excited about it obviously. First, Everton is the only one that we have in mind.”

Arsenal’s recent record at Goodison Park has spurred Arteta to acknowledge the need for his side to put in top performance to secure a victory. He emphasized the need to earn the win and break the streak of unsuccessful visits.

Arteta also shared his emotional connection to Everton, a club where he once enjoyed a successful playing career before transitioning into coaching. “Obviously, I have a big emotional attachment to that football club, the way they treated me, and the years that I spent there.

“The incredible memories that I have, so always grateful. It was a big, big part of my playing career, and now as a coach, I have to play against them, and obviously, I want to beat them,” he added.