We’ve taken a ‘backward step’ this season: Arteta

Arsenal’s midfield duo of Thomas Partey and Declan Rice (right) look glum after losing to Paris Saint-Germain recently. Pic/Getty Images

Ahead of their clash with Premier League champions Liverpool, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta conceded that his side has regressed this season. However, he remains adamant that they will end their 21 year Premier League title drought soon.

"In the Premier League we've done a step backwards. But with the amount of points we have generated in the last few seasons, we could have two Premier Leagues. So, we know how close [we are to winning the title]," said Arteta.

Mikel Arteta

"We are providing the numbers that win titles, but [we have to] still do better to make sure that nobody has a season better than us," he added.

The Spanish coach also urged his side to use the frustration of having to give Liverpool a guard of honour on Sunday as fuel to win the league next season. "Something has to drive you, motivate you. The pain [of losing the title] is a good motivation for next season," Arteta said.

He also said that Slot's team have set a benchmark for the rest to follow.

"They've been the best team, they've been the most consistent, and what Arne and the coaching staff have done has been fascinating, it's been really good. They fully deserve it. If somebody is better, you have to accept it and try to reach that level," he added.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever