Mikel Arteta: ‘Arsenal are transmitting a powerful connection’
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes that his side are transmitting a “really powerful” connection after dominating Tottenham Hotspur in a 3-1 North London derby win.
The Gunners were at risk of losing their grip on top spot to Antonio Conte’s side at the Emirates, but Arteta’s side put in a scintillating display to earn the local bragging rights.
Thomas Partey’s stunning strike put Arsenal ahead before Gabriel Magalhaes brought down Richarlison inside the area, and Harry Kane converted the resulting penalty to level for Tottenham.
However, Gabriel Jesus restored Arsenal’s lead four minutes into the second half before Granit Xhaka put the cherry on the icing on the cake for the Premier League leaders.
Arteta’s side have now opened up a four-point gap over Tottenham and Manchester City at the top of the table, and the Spaniard is sensing a powerful energy around the ground.
The 29-year-old has witnessed several long-range efforts fly over the bar in Arsenal colours, but in the 20th minute of the contest, he picked out the top corner with a delightful first-time effort.
Arsenal had to be patient for the opener – making 22 passes in that phase of play – and Arteta believes that the team’s understanding was key to breaking down the Spurs backline.
“The moment that the ball was going into the net and I could see it going in, and then obviously the celebration!” Arteta responded when asked about his favourite aspect of Partey’s strike.
“If we can score in one, I would prefer it! It’s quicker, you are closer to the goal and it’s easier to do. It’s the way we play that we trained for every single day, but I think as a team that connection and understanding of what we want to do is reflected in that action.”
Man City will aim to cut the gap back down to one point in Sunday’s derby with Manchester United, while Arsenal now prepare for battle against Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday.
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