The Arsenal boss had his say on the relegation battle
James Smailes
09:00, 01 Feb 2026
Mikel Arteta pictured with James Justin
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Mikel Arteta pictured with James Justin(Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Leeds United to retain their Premier League place this season and the Gunners boss hopes he's correct after praising the Elland Road experience.
There's little surprise Arteta enjoyed his trip to Elland Road, with the Premier League leaders leaving with a 4-0 victory, having beaten the Whites 5-0 at the Emirates Stadium at the start of the season.
Despite questions over whether they were throwing away their title chances, Arsenal were in control early on and while Leeds improved after the break following a tactical change, the Gunners already had the points sewen up.
The Arsenal boss saw enough in the game and from Leeds in recent weeks to convince him Daniel Farke's team will survive their relegation fight.
"I think so, they are really well organised," responded Arteta when asked if Leeds will stay up this season. "They have threat, they have quality. What they've done is very smart. They can play different ways.
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"They have an amazing stadium with a beautiful atmosphere which brings the level to a difficult place to match. It's that atmosphere that makes it unique and a special place to play."
Leeds will hope Arteta is right and have a big chance to improve their position when they return to action on Friday night against Nottingham Forest.
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