Mikel Arteta explains why Man City beat Arsenal in Premier League showdown
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Arsenal struggled with Manchester City's superior physicality in their Premier League title clash last week.
The Gunners were thoroughly beaten by an in-form City side at the Etihad Stadium in a game many believe will go on to decide the fate of the league title this season. Goals from Erling Haaland, John Stones and a brace from Kevin De Bruyne proved to be the difference between the teams on the night.
Since then, City have overtaken Arsenal in the Premier League table thanks to a follow-up 2-1 win over Fulham, going two points clear having played one game less.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's London derby clash with Chelsea on Tuesday, Arteta was asked if the physical strength of the City team played a part in last week's defeat.
“Centimetre by centimetre on the day, yes [they were bigger], but it takes time to build the perfect team," the Spaniard said.
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With that answer in mind, Arteta was also asked if the Gunners need to target more physically imposing players during the upcoming transfer window, a question to which he replied: “It's a great question and you think you might go in that direction. But playing with Gael Clichy, David Silva, Bernardo Silva, Kun Aguero, Sterling - City collected 100 points.
“Xavi, Iniesta, Messi, Pedro – six titles [at Barcelona]. Good players, incredible players. In the right moment they step up. They love what they do and they create the right chemistry.
“You have them and they are all two metres tall? Even better. Great. Are they good enough technically? Are they sharp enough? Can they turn? The perfect machine - that's what we all want. Give me 24 of those. We are all looking for the perfect squad, and hopefully we can find it.”
Arsenal can reclaim top spot with victory over an underwhelming Chelsea side, but City can wrestle back the initiative 24 hours later when they host struggling West Ham.
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On this edition of The Chronicles of a Gooner, part of the 90min podcast network, Harry Symeou previews Arsenal's crucial midweek clash with Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.
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