Mikel Arteta was pleased with Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 victory over Coventry City but insisted the Premier League champions must maintain their hunger to improve, while also providing positive updates on Bruno Guimarães and new signing Ezri Konsa.
Arsenal opened their title defence with a convincing victory at the Emirates, and Arteta was impressed not only by the result but also by the performance itself.
Arteta praises Arsenal’s control and chemistry
“There was a lot to like. Obviously it was a great result, but the manner we started the game, the domination, clarity, understanding and growth in the game was really impressive.”
Arteta highlighted the return of several players who missed significant periods last season, particularly Ben White, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, and said their combinations were evident.
“It was good, it was about the connections between players that I really like, the outside ones as well, Bukayo I think was exceptional.”
The Arsenal manager believes improving individual performances and relationships within the team will remain central to their development.
“The main focus has to be there – to improve our players and improve the connection between them, because they are already so good.”
Tzolis continues to make an impression
Christos Tzolis again attracted attention following his bright start to life at Arsenal. Arteta welcomed comparisons with former Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez while stressing the Greek winger’s own qualities.
“I love that a player who has only been with us a few weeks gets this kind of energy whenever he’s on the ball.”
Arteta described Tzolis’ recent performances as “phenomenal”, highlighting his direct running, incisiveness and decision-making in the final third.
“He has an incredible variety of actions in the last 30 metres to decide and make the right decisions – even when the spaces are really small. I’m really impressed with him.”
Champions cannot afford to relax
Despite Arsenal’s status as champions, Arteta rejected the idea that his players should become complacent.
“They can flow – relax, no – I don’t like ‘relax’!”
Instead, he wants his team to play with clarity, connection and purpose while maintaining the desire to improve.
“What I did transmit is more desire and energy to improve, to be better, and to earn the right to be better than anybody else.”
He also acknowledged the positive atmosphere at the Emirates but noted that the real test would come during more difficult moments.
“Let’s see when it’s 0-0 or we’re maybe losing a game!”
Positive Guimaraes injury update
There was encouraging news on Bruno Guimaraes, who was withdrawn during the Community Shield after suffering a thigh issue.
“We expect him not to be out for weeks. Let’s see how he evolves this week.”
Arteta revealed that Guimaraes wanted to continue playing, something he viewed as an early indication of the midfielder’s character.
“He wanted to carry on and that’s when you start to understand the character of the player.”
Konsa adds defensive depth
Arteta also welcomed the arrival of Ezri Konsa, explaining that Arsenal identified the England international as a player who could strengthen their defensive options.
“Ezri is certainly a player we really liked in the defensive line.”
Read More: Ezri Konsa makes Arsenal vow after completing transfer: “I’m hungry to win”
Asked whether further attacking recruitment was required, Arteta maintained that his immediate priority is developing the squad already available to him.
“I’m really happy with the squad that we have, and the main focus is to improve the players we already have, as we already have a lot of good things.”
For Arteta, the Coventry victory provided the desired start, but the manager’s message remains centred on maintaining standards rather than resting on last season’s success.
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