"We have to play with the spirit and belief that we can win," Arteta said at the pre-match press conference on 29/8. "They are champions and deservedly so. Liverpool were the best team last season, the most consistent, and they know how to win in many ways. Arsenal want to become a team like that."

Manager Mikel Arteta smiles during the press conference before Arsenal's Premier League third-round match against Liverpool. Photo: Arsenal FC

Arsenal's last Premier League victory at Anfield came over a decade ago, a 2-0 win at the start of the 2012-2013 season thanks to goals from Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski.

Arteta, who started in that match, understands the motivational boost a victory at Liverpool would provide for his players in their title pursuit this season. "We want to maintain our momentum, and big games like this are a great opportunity. The goal is to play convincingly and leave Anfield with a win," he said.

At Anfield last season, Arsenal twice took the lead through Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino, but ultimately drew 2-2. Arteta emphasized the need for his team to maintain focus for the full 90 minutes and capitalize on opportunities to secure all three points.

The Spanish manager also acknowledged Liverpool's improvements after spending over 400 million USD on reinforcements. "The change comes from individual characteristics," he explained. "When a specific player receives the ball in a certain area with different qualities, the outcome will be different. They've made several signings, very high-quality signings. They are constantly upgrading their squad, just like us. So, we have a big game ahead."

Arteta continued to praise his opponent, considering Liverpool the frontrunner in the title race. "The previous season's champion is always the top contender. The rest, including Arsenal, have to find a way to take the crown from them. That's our goal," he affirmed.

Eberechi Eze before his first training session with Arsenal. Photo: Arsenal FC

Regarding personnel, Arteta revealed that Kai Havertz recently underwent surgery and will be out for several weeks. Bukayo Saka has a hamstring injury, not requiring surgery, but will also be sidelined for a period. Captain Martin Odegaard, defender Ben White, and new signing Christian Norgaard are also doubtful.

Arteta had high praise for new signing Eberechi Eze, commending the English midfielder's exceptional energy, ability to penetrate defenses, and precise timing in passing and dribbling. He believes Eze will make the team more unpredictable due to his versatility. He even compared Eze to creative players like Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky.

Hong Duy