**Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refused to be drawn into the controversy surrounding Manchester City’s financial rule breaches, insisting the ongoing appeal must be respected as his side prepare to face Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.**
Speaking at Friday’s pre-match press conference, the Spaniard faced repeated questions about his former club, the integrity of the Premier League and whether City’s off-field troubles could influence this season’s title race.
“I think it’s very important that we respect the process,” Arteta said. “It’s still an ongoing process that is not resolved because it’s been appealed.”
The former City assistant manager, who worked under Pep Guardiola before taking charge of Arsenal in December 2019, also declined to say whether the ruling had affected his memories of his time in Manchester.
Pressed on whether the controversy could benefit Arsenal’s title defence, Arteta maintained that his players had to concentrate on matters within their control.
The 44-year-old expressed confidence in the authorities handling the case, saying he trusted them to reach the right conclusion. He also insisted the Premier League remained the best competition in world football.
Arsenal return to domestic action following a three-week international break, looking to recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton.
Arteta admitted the result still hurt and warned that his players must rediscover the standards that helped them secure their first Premier League title in 22 years last season.
“It was a lesson for us,” he said, highlighting the importance of getting the basics right.
The Arsenal boss also acknowledged how quickly performances could deteriorate, describing the fine margins between being exceptional and becoming an average side.
However, he refused to underestimate Leeds, who remain unbeaten in the league under Daniel Farke.
Arteta praised the visitors’ performances and insisted their strong start was fully deserved, adding that Arsenal had spent the previous two days analysing their opponents.
Arsenal have also been dealing with several injury concerns following the international break.
Arteta confirmed that Christos Tzolis would miss the Leeds fixture after suffering a muscle injury, with the Greek winger expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
Declan Rice, meanwhile, could feature despite having his workload managed following the World Cup. Arteta explained that the midfielder had been dealing with several physical issues after an intense schedule over the past three years.
Kai Havertz and Ezri Konsa also returned early from international duty, with their availability to be assessed before Saturday’s match.
There was more encouraging news regarding Max Dowman, Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera, all of whom were declared available.
The press conference also marked Arteta’s first public appearance since signing a new contract keeping him at Arsenal until 2030.
The Spaniard described himself as extremely honoured and expressed gratitude towards the Kroenke family and the club’s leadership.
He revealed that the discussions had focused on more than his personal future, with both parties sharing an ambition to establish Arsenal among the world’s leading clubs for years to come.
Arteta also reflected on the transformation of the club since his arrival, highlighting the renewed connection between supporters, players and staff.
Despite approaching seven years in charge, he dismissed suggestions that he might soon need a break from management, insisting his enthusiasm for the job remained as strong as ever.
Arsenal host Leeds United at 12:30 BST on Saturday, seeking an immediate response to their first league defeat of the season.