Arteta praises Arsenal reaction after Wolves defeat ahead of north London derby | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta sees a “tremendous reaction” from his players ahead of a feisty North London Derby as the Gunners look to rectify a disappointing draw away at Wolves.

The title race took an unexpected turn as Arsenal failed to beat relegation-bound Wolves after failing to keep hold of a two-goal lead in stoppage time.

The players and many fans were left bitterly disappointed after having the chance to go seven points clear of title rivals Manchester City.

The point gap is now five points; however, the Cityzens have a game in hand and could close it to two points as they host Newcastle before they play this weekend.

Asked about the reaction to the result at Molineux and ahead of the derby, Mikel Arteta said, “What I’ve seen is a tremendous reaction again, and I’m not surprised at all.

He added, “We have a long season. Chapter 27 says we draw against Wolves in this manner. What I’m very interested in is the next one, it’s what we are made of.”

Positive news still struck the Arsenal camp, as Bukayo Saka signed a new long-term contract with the Gunners.

Arteta was in good spirits about the new deal, he said, “Bukayo’s news, obviously, is great, he’s one of our own. We got him here since he was little. For him to make that decision and the club to be so aligned with him, I think it’s a really positive thing.”

Having been at the club for over six years, Arteta’s tenure has brought the FA Cup since August 2020, but they’re itching for more major glory.

Despite failing to get over the line in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons, potential history can be made as the league leaders are still competing in all four competitions this season.

While questions remain over the mentality, Mikel Arteta sees the opportunity to win trophies and compete in title races repeatedly as an exciting time. He elaborated: “I think it’s becoming more and more exciting [to be in title races] because that means that you are closer.

“The more repeatedly you are in these kinds of positions, the more you’re going to win it. The same in the Champions League.

“First of all, you have to be there, and then in April or May, it will be decided who is the best and who can get over the line.”

On availability, there was confirmation of no new injuries and a “big possibility” of Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard and German Kai Havertz returning to the matchday squad this Sunday.