Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes his side can reach a higher level than they did last season after maintaining their perfect start to the Premier League campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Chelsea on Sunday.
The Gunners fell behind to an early Morgan Rogers goal at the Emirates Stadium but responded through Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard to claim all three points.
Speaking after the match, Arteta described Arsenal’s performance as “exceptional” and said the victory was an indication of what the team could achieve this season.
“I think it’s an indication for us that we’re capable of performing even higher than we did last season,” Arteta said, according to the club’s post-match report.
“It depends on whether we maintain that desire, that humility, and continue every day to find a greater version of myself and the team.
“We still have a lot to grow and a lot to offer, and that’s the ambition of the team.”
Arteta praises Odegaard’s form
Arteta also singled out captain Martin Odegaard for praise, saying the midfielder’s current form has been boosted by improved fitness and confidence.
“First of all, he feels fit and confidence-wise, it’s the highest I’ve seen him,” the Arsenal boss said.
“He has a point to prove from last season as well, from missing so much football. Kai is the same; Bukayo is the same.
“We missed so many attacking players last season for long, long periods – I’m not sure how many games they played together last season, but probably not many.”
Arteta believes Odegaard is benefiting from developing a stronger understanding with his teammates and, most importantly, enjoying his football again.
“When you start to feel the chemistry they have between them and what they can produce, it’s great. But for me, he gets to that point because he’s enjoying his football,” he said.
“You have to enjoy what you do, to play with real intent, and that’s what I saw today. He was running forward; he took shots, created so many situations for his teammates – he was great.”
Havertz looking settled
Arteta was equally pleased with Havertz’s contribution, saying the German forward appears happier and more settled at the club.
“He looks happy. He looks settled, happy, and some great things have happened in his personal life as well,” Arteta said.
“He feels fit, he’s training every day and has this routine right now. He’s scoring goals, but not only that – he’s also doing amazing work for the team.”
The Arsenal manager believes the squad still has significant room for improvement and wants both the team and individual players to reach another level.
“It’s no question that we have some great players. I believe in them and that they can improve, and they can have another version of themselves that is even better than what we’ve seen.
“If the team is better and the players are better, everyone will benefit from it, and that’s the objective.”
