Mikel Arteta has suggested for the first time that Arsenal have taken a step backwards in the Premier League this season.
The Gunners will end the season trophyless for a fifth straight season after their Champions League semi-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain this week.
They travel to Liverpool on Sunday to pay tribute to their rivals, who have already secured the title with four games remaining.
Arteta's men have scored fewer goals and collected fewer points than in either of the last two seasons when they were Manchester City's closest pursuers.
They also have third-placed City three points behind them and breathing down their necks with three games remaining.
Arteta said: “We've taken a step back in the Premier League.
“Judging by the points we have scored, it is clear that we have not played the same game as last season, and this is certainly noticeable.
“However, with the number of points we have collected in recent seasons, we could win two Premier League titles. It highlights how close we are. We are putting in the numbers that lead to trophies.”
Arteta raised eyebrows after his side's defeat to PSG when he claimed Arsenal were the best team in the Champions League this season.
Asked if he still stands by his opinion, Arteta replied: “One hundred percent. I analyse it, I study all the statistics. And when you look at the important indicators that usually give you the best basis to win games, it becomes very clear who was stronger.
“But it's not just about the probability of winning or what you've accomplished, it's about making it happen and making a difference.”
Arsenal's attempts to end their trophy drought since winning the FA Cup in 2020 have been hampered by a series of injuries to key players, with Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and defender Gabriel all facing lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Since Arteta's appointment as manager in 2019, he has transformed
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
