Mikel Arteta has stated that Arsenal’s nine-point lead at the top of the Premier League means “nothing,” even as his team increases the pressure on Manchester City.
The Gunners secured a comfortable 3-0 victory against Sunderland on Saturday, with Martín Zubimendi opening the scoring with a long-range strike in the 42nd minute. Substitute Viktor Gyökeres added two more goals late in the match.
Manchester City will need to respond with their game-in-hand against last season’s champions, Liverpool, on Sunday—a venue where they have only won once in their last 22 league visits.
Arsenal’s current lead is their largest since the final day of the 2003-04 season, when they last claimed the league title.
When asked about the significance of the gap at this stage of the season, Arteta replied, “Nothing. We still have to win many games to achieve our goals. Let’s not focus on that; we’ve done our job, and now we need to assess it, improve where we can, and get ready for Brentford on Thursday.”
Gyökeres’ two goals brought his total to 13 in all competitions, marking his sixth goal in the last eight matches after a challenging start following his €73.5 million ($86 million) transfer from Sporting Lisbon.
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Arteta praised Gyökeres, stating, “[He is] the kind of character we anticipated. Wearing this shirt comes with significant responsibility and expectations, and you must handle that.” He emphasized that players will experience both highs and lows during their journey.
“What I appreciate about him is his character, daily approach, focus on the present, and genuine desire to assist the team in any role. His consistency in practice, training, understanding his teammates, and communicating his needs regarding movements and deliveries truly makes a difference.”