Mikel Arteta has credited Declan Rice with triggering Arsenal's remarkable turnaround after a devastating defeat to Manchester City last month. The Gunners' midfielder was seen mouthing on television, "it's not done," following the loss at the Etihad, which left Arsenal's season on the brink. However, the response has been nothing short of extraordinary, with two consecutive league wins against Newcastle and Fulham, and a place in the Champions League final secured after beating Atletico Madrid.
Arteta on Rice's Influence
Arteta recalled the clip from the Etihad and emphasized that Rice's message resonated throughout the entire dressing room. "I think that was the start of the sentence. It's not done, and we're more confident that we're going to do it," Arteta said. "That was the feeling without them even needing to express it in the dressing room, but I felt it immediately."
Pressure Back on Manchester City
The Gunners have put the pressure back on title rivals Manchester City, and now Arsenal could end up winning both the Premier League and the Champions League in what would be an unforgettable season. Arteta noted, "We have shown throughout the last three or four seasons what we are capable of in terms of performances and consistency, and now it's about delivering when the moment matters the most."
Team Spirit and Motivation
Arteta insists his players are not getting carried away but are determined to finish the job. When asked if he had ever seen his players as motivated, he replied, "Motivated, I don't know, as happy, and emotional, and loud, probably I haven't, because that was a brilliant moment." He added, "What is driving and really pushing the team is that incredible will to win. We must stay present, live the moment, prepare, and show the same level of energy, hunger, and desire that we've shown all season, or more."
Injury Update
Arteta confirmed no fresh injury concerns after the Atletico win but admitted that Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber are facing a race against time to play again this season. "They have no chance for the weekend. I don't know beyond that, there's still a fair bit to do so everything has to be so smooth and quick if they want to have a chance to play any minutes," Arteta said.
