As Arsenal prepare to host Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium this Sunday at 16:30 BST, live on Sky Sports, managers Mikel Arteta and Erik ten Hag provide valuable insights into what promises to be an intense battle.
- Mikel Arteta emphasises the significance of the Arsenal-Manchester United fixture and speaks on the competitive nature of the match.
- Arteta highlights the importance of maintaining momentum, especially with the international break looming.
- Erik ten Hag confirms that Rasmus Hojlund is fit and ready for Sunday’s match against Arsenal.
Arteta on the Arsenal-Manchester United rivalry
“We know the history between the two clubs and the games that we had in the past,” Arteta began. “They were a really good example, so it’s going to be a really competitive match and a big battle on Sunday. Obviously, we want to come away from that with three points.”
On title credentials and momentum
“I don’t know. I think it’s too early in the season,” said Arteta. “We all want to win games, we all want to play the best possible way. That’s not going to dictate, but it gives you momentum and belief. Before the international break, it’s very important to finish well and win your game and go into September with another block of games on a high.”
On high-scoring matches and raised expectations
“Well, first of all, the quality of the players, there are a lot of top offensive players in the two teams, and it is probably the approach of both teams,” Arteta noted. “Normally it’s a very entertaining fixture.”
“It has raised the level of every single thing that we do every year, and we have to demand more of each other to be better,” he added.
Ten Hag confirms Hojlund’s fitness
Ahead of United’s trip to Arsenal, Erik ten Hag confirmed that Rasmus Hojlund is fit to play.
“Yes, he’s had a good training week,” said ten Hag. “So, yeah, he’ll be available for Sunday’s game. I think he’s ready to start.”
Altay Bayindir: In or out?
Ten Hag was also questioned about new signing, Altay Bayindir, and whether the Turkish goalkeeper will feature in the clash.
However, the ten Hag said “I can’t tell because I don’t know. When we have news, we will tell you.”
What about Reguilon?
United have signed Sergio Reguilon on a season-long loan from Tottenham. Ten Hag explained, “He’s very experienced player, played for big clubs, already played a lot of La Liga and Premier League games, he has a very good background, he can play very intense football, we are happy.
“We had a problem with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia injured, we responded well in that emergency situation.”