Mikel Arteta is delighted to see Leeds United back in the Premier League as his Arsenal side seek to win the title for the first time in 22 years.
The Whites head to the capital knowing they will be big underdogs to pick up maximum points at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow night, kick-off 5:30pm. Arteta has transformed the Gunners fortunes, leading them to three successive second-placed finishes.
Arsenal have splashed the cash in the transfer market, signing striker Viktor Gyokeres (£55m), defender Cristhian Mosquera (£13m), midfielder Martin Zubimendi (£60m), goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga (£5m), midfielder Christian Norgaard (£10m) and forward Noni Madueke (£48.5m) this summer. England international Eberechi Eze also looks set to join from Crystal Palace in a £60m deal.
For Arteta, the prospect of pitting his wits against the Whites is one that he is relishing. On facing United, he told the media: "Incredible club, incredible history as well. I’ve been here long enough to understand the history of that club. As I said, very special, one big city with just one club. So passionate and you know what happens when you go there and play. It's great to have them back, wish them all the best, apart from tomorrow."
The Spaniard said he "very impressed" with the Whites' performance against Everton on Monday and has warned his Arsenal side not to take the Championship title winners lightly. "I've been watching them, what they did in pre-season, what they did on Monday, what they did last year, for sure, in the manner that they did it," said Arteta, who is missing a number of first team players due to injury.
"Big compliments to the way they play, to the coach (Daniel Farke). I'm sure they're going to put a really difficult match against us tomorrow."
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