Mikel Arteta hopes that his former mentor David Moyes and West Ham can halt Manchester City’s progress, giving Arsenal the opportunity to win the Premier League for the first time in 20 years.
Arsenal finds themselves trailing in the title race, currently sitting in second place with 86 points, two points behind Manchester City. Due to their slightly superior goal difference (+61 compared to +60), the Gunners will clinch the title if they defeat Everton at the Emirates Stadium, while Manchester City draws or loses to West Ham at the Etihad in the final round on May 19.
During the press conference before the Everton match, when asked about the possibility of West Ham hindering Manchester City, Arteta replied: “It’s really tough to beat any opponent in the Premier League. And when everything is decided by small details, that task becomes even more challenging. But that’s not within our control.”
According to the Spanish coach, Manchester City holds the advantage in points and playing at home, but he rates West Ham as a tough opponent. Arteta recalled Arsenal’s struggles against West Ham in recent seasons, including a 0-2 defeat at home in the first stage of the Premier League and a 1-3 loss in the League Cup round of 16 this season. “It’s really difficult to beat West Ham. I’m sure they will make an effort, and hopefully, they can help us achieve our dream,” he expressed.
Arteta advised Arsenal players at Colney training ground on May 17.
Currently leading West Ham is David Moyes, Arteta’s former mentor. It was Moyes who signed Arteta from Real Sociedad in January 2005 when the midfielder was just 22 years old. The two immediately found success, guiding Everton to a top-four finish in the Premier League in the 2004-2005 season. Over six years, Arteta played over 200 matches under Moyes at Everton.
When asked if he had spoken to Moyes before the final round, Arteta replied: “I don’t think I need to do that, but Moyes played an important role in my career, not only as a footballer but also as a person. Moyes can help us fulfill our dream and my personal dream of winning the Premier League. It’s a scenario that seems unbelievable and will always be in my memory.”
With both Arsenal and Manchester City in contention for the title, the organizers will prepare two Premier League trophies. “This trophy has never been at the Emirates Stadium, and that has been the case for the past 20 years,” Arteta expressed. “The trophy will be at the stadium, and we can win it. We have to do our job and then wait to see what happens.”
Before hoping for a stumble from Manchester City, Arsenal needs to defeat Everton to keep their title hopes alive. Arteta emphasized that he doesn’t entertain negative scenarios but only envisions Arsenal winning and enjoying a beautiful ending. He also views the title race against Manchester City going down to the wire as the most important moment for him and many of his players.