"When there is a new coach, the intensity always increases. We saw that in the Manchester derby, from how Manchester United approached the game to their behavior on the pitch. Arsenal will certainly have to adapt", Arteta stated during a press conference ahead of the crucial 23rd round Premier League clash at Emirates Stadium.

Coach Mikel Arteta applauds fans after Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League on 20/1. *Photo: PA Wire*

In Carrick's debut as interim coach, Manchester United played brilliantly, securing a 2-0 victory over Manchester City with goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu. This result ended Manchester United's 4-match winless streak under Ruben Amorim and Darren Fletcher, and marked only the second time since 2020 they had defeated Manchester City at home in the derby.

Arteta admitted it is difficult to predict how Manchester United will play under Carrick but affirmed that Arsenal would remain true to their identity. "Ultimately, individuals decide the match", he said. "We will try to impose our playing style, control the game, and get the ball into advantageous areas, regardless of what the opponent wants to do."

The Spanish coach views transition ability as one of Manchester United's strengths. "They are very dangerous when they have space to accelerate", he stated. "This team has many qualities to trouble any opponent, though they certainly also have weaknesses."

When asked if Manchester United is the best transition team in the Premier League, the 43-year-old coach answered cautiously but acknowledged the opponent "is always among the best."

Arteta also shared his experience coaching at a club where he once played, similar to his situation at Arsenal and Carrick's at Manchester United. According to the Spanish coach, the existing connection with Arsenal is an advantage, stemming from an understanding of the club's culture, people, and history. However, a coach still needs time to adapt to new circumstances and the pressures of the job.

Arsenal are in excellent form, leading both the Premier League and the Champions League. Earlier this week, the "Gunners" secured a 3-1 away win against Inter Milan, setting a record of seven consecutive Champions League group stage victories this season. Their previous best European record was a six-match winning streak in the 2005-2006 Champions League campaign and the 2020-2021 Europa League group stage. However, the longest winning streak in Champions League history still belongs to Bayern, with 15 consecutive matches between 2019 and 2020.

Witnessing this form, coach Pep Guardiola praised Arsenal as "the best team in the world." However, Arteta remained modest. "We are doing many things right, but we are far from perfect. To be considered the best team, you have to win many titles, and we haven't done that yet", he expressed.

While appreciating Guardiola's praise, the Arsenal coach emphasized the team's most important goal is continuous improvement. "We want to become the best version of ourselves every day, and we will not stop until we achieve that", Arteta affirmed.

Hong Duy (according to Arsenal.com)