Mikel Arteta shoots down Arsenal comparison ahead of Liverpool game - 'We have to do that'

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Mikel Arteta has dismissed direct comparisons between his current Arsenal side and past teams ahead of their high-stakes Premier League clash with Liverpool, insisting that his squad must “write their own story” through tangible success on the pitch. While acknowledging that external observers may see similarities with previous title-challenging Arsenals, he stressed that this group has not yet earned the right to be spoken about in the same bracket until it delivers major trophies.

Arteta framed the upcoming Liverpool game as a key opportunity to make a statement, noting that Arsenal still have “a point to prove” against the reigning champions after previous setbacks in this fixture. He highlighted how matches of this magnitude are decided not by form alone, but by mentality, focus and the ability to perform under pressure across 90 minutes. The Spaniard underlined that Liverpool, despite any recent inconsistency, remain capable of shifting the narrative of their season with one big performance, and that Arsenal must be ready to match and exceed that level.

Central to Arteta’s message was the role of the Emirates Stadium crowd. He called on supporters to arrive early and generate a fierce atmosphere, arguing that the energy from the stands can transform his players, lifting their confidence, aggression and intensity. In his view, this connection between team and fans is a decisive factor in tight games against elite opponents.

Looking more broadly, Arteta reiterated his belief that Arsenal are on the right trajectory but must convert promise into proof. That means maintaining their strong league form, taking points from direct rivals like Liverpool, and showing consistency at the top of the table. Only then, he suggested, will comparisons with great Arsenal sides of the past be justified. For now, the task is simple: embrace the pressure, seize the moment, and “do that” on the pitch when it matters most.