Mikel Arteta: 'Arsenal will face a tough challenge against Burnley'

In the pre-match press conference ahead of the Round 10 Premier League 2025/26 clash with Burnley, Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta acknowledged that Burnley is currently a very difficult team to beat, especially considering their performances in the last five games.

As a newly promoted team to the Premier League this season, Burnley has surprised fans by displaying a style of play far superior to that of a Championship side. Although they have not achieved good results against top teams this season, Burnley consistently performs well against teams of similar or slightly higher level. They are currently on a high after two consecutive wins against comparable opponents like Leeds and Wolves, placing them 16th with 10 points from 9 rounds, a safe position for survival.

Burnley’s current excellent form has made Arsenal, who are on an 8-game winning streak across all competitions, proceed with caution. In the pre-match press conference for the Round 10 Premier League 2025/26 match against Burnley, Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta expressed his respect for Scott Parker’s team:

“Our 8 consecutive wins come from maintaining urgency, focus, willpower, and desire, which we have demonstrated in every match. Each game presents different challenges; sometimes we need patience, while other times we must approach the game differently.

The match against Burnley will be very tough. They are extremely well coached; I know Scott Parker well and what he has done with Burnley is impressive. Reviewing their last 5 matches, it’s clear they are a very hard team to overcome.”

When asked about the competitiveness of this season, especially with the fluctuating form of the contenders, Arteta answered frankly:

“More than ever, I believe the quality of the league is improving year by year. Better structure, improved organization, smarter decision-making by clubs and coaches, higher-quality players... all demonstrate how fiercely competitive it is. When I look at the top teams or how newly promoted sides perform, how they gain or drop points, it all comes down to very small details. And that is the reality of this league.”

Facing the challenge of Burnley, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal certainly cannot afford to be complacent, especially as this Premier League season has become more competitive than ever. With high focus and consistent form, the "Gunners" aim to extend their winning streak, while also understanding that a single mistake could instantly erase all advantages.

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