Arsenal latest: Arteta under pressure as Gyokeres shares positive update after knock

Arsenal latest: Arteta under pressure as Gyokeres shares positive update after knock

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a win on Tuesday night and now turn their attention to a huge Premier League clash on Sunday.

The Gunners came through their meeting with Athletic Club without major issues, using the game as ideal preparation for the showdown with Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side also have less recovery time, something Arsenal will hope to capitalise on.

Liverpool remain the early pace-setters in the league, taking maximum points from their opening four fixtures. Arne Slot’s men also claimed a dramatic midweek European victory, with Virgil van Dijk netting a late winner against Atletico Madrid.

For Arsenal, three points at the Emirates this weekend would keep them in touch with Liverpool and move them six points clear of City, who have already suffered two league defeats.

Arteta faces selection dilemmas after both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard made a major impact off the bench in Spain, scoring in the 2-0 victory. Both attackers are now pushing for starts against City.

Lescott tips Arsenal for title push

Former Premier League champion Joleon Lescott believes Arsenal’s summer squad reinforcements could be key in their title challenge. He pointed to squad depth as the main factor behind their failures in recent years, first to City and then to Liverpool.
“This season they’ll be closer because of their squad,” Lescott told In The Mixer, via Sky Bet. “You can’t rely on your best XI being available all the time, but Arsenal now have better options to cope with injuries and suspensions.”

That assessment means Arteta cannot hide behind excuses if Arsenal fall short again, with expectations of silverware growing.

Financial boost from Bilbao win

Arsenal’s victory in Spain also delivered £1.8m in prize money. Each Champions League group-stage win carries the same reward, with up to £32.5m available for a perfect record. More cash is on offer in the knockout rounds, but Arteta’s real focus will be lifting a major trophy after last season’s semi-final run.

Gyokeres upbeat after injury scare

Striker Viktor Gyokeres, who required treatment and a bandage following a head knock against Athletic Club, looks set to be available for the City clash. He managed 65 minutes in Bilbao, and Arteta confirmed he expects the Swede to be fit for Sunday.
Gyokeres himself downplayed concerns, posting: “Great to be back in @ChampionsLeague with a win” on social media.

The forward didn’t get on the scoresheet this time, but his hat-trick against Manchester City last season is a reminder of what he can do — and he’ll be eager to deliver again this weekend.