Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated London derby against Chelsea, acknowledging the progress the Blues have made under Enzo Maresca and the challenge they will bring to the Emirates.

Reflecting on Arsenal’s 5-0 victory over Chelsea last season, Arteta made it clear that this weekend’s encounter will be a completely different test.

“I think it’s going to be a very different game. I think the way they develop as a team as well is very impressive, what they’ve done on the coaching staff, the amount of talent that they have in the squad.

“So yes, a really tough match but we had our best of luck, a big chance for us to win the game,” Arteta said.

The Arsenal boss also highlighted the tactical battle between the two sides, expecting an intense game where both teams will try to impose their style of play.

“I think two teams that want to be very dominant in the way of playing are very aggressive on the high press and the way we have to have the ball.

“A lot of individual quality on that pitch so it’s about imposing what you want and the direction that you want to take the game and keep them very far from their strengths. I think that’s going to be a key thing as well,” Arteta stated.

With both clubs chasing their respective objectives, this London derby promises to be an exciting and high-stakes encounter.