Mikel Arteta discusses Arsenal’s results against big-six following another win

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·19 August 2025

Mikel Arteta discusses Arsenal’s results against big-six following another win

Arsenal began the 2025/2026 Premier League season with a victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. It was a result that delighted their supporters and offered an early statement of intent in the new campaign.

Some critics may argue that the performance itself was not convincing, and even certain Arsenal players might privately acknowledge that they can improve. However, the outcome was what mattered most, and it ensured the Gunners opened the season with three valuable points.

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Arsenal’s Record Against Top Opposition

When the fixture list was released, many fans expressed concern about beginning the season away to a resurgent Manchester United side. The Red Devils had eliminated Arsenal from the FA Cup last season and appeared to be a team rebuilt with confidence. Yet what some failed to recognise is that Arsenal have steadily developed a superb record against the so-called big six under Mikel Arteta.

Prior to Arteta’s tenure, Arsenal frequently struggled in matches against their elite rivals and were often defeated. That narrative has now shifted. The Gunners have become a formidable opponent in these fixtures, making it difficult for any of the leading clubs even to secure a draw against them. The latest triumph at Old Trafford only reinforced that progress and highlighted how much the mentality within the squad has evolved.

William Saliba (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Arteta on the Mental Shift

After the match, Arteta was asked about Arsenal’s growing strength against top clubs and their improved record in high-profile fixtures. Speaking to Arsenal Media, he explained, “I think that was the case [putting the mental block against the Big Six to bed]. It was 18 years, or 22 years here at Old Trafford without winning before I came, and now I go in the dressing room, we won here the first game, and we are still not happy. It’s a good sign.”

His comments underline the cultural change at the club, with victories in such challenging environments no longer viewed as extraordinary achievements but as part of their expected standards. The focus has now shifted towards consistency against all opponents, not only the traditional rivals.

With their confidence high and the squad more resilient than ever, Arsenal have the foundations to mount a strong challenge this season. If they can pair their impressive record against top clubs with consistent results against the rest of the league, the prospect of another unbeaten run will not be beyond reach.

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