Arsenal’s position in the Premier League is a hard-earned ‘privilege’, says Arteta

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has described his team’s position at the top of the Premier League as a ‘privilege’ earned through more than seven months of consistent excellence as they prepare to face Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Arsenal are four points clear of second-placed Manchester City after 26 games ahead of Wednesday’s visit to Wolves.

“The position we are in is a privilege because we have deserved it for so long,” Arteta told reporters on Tuesday.

“Seven and a half months is a long time to do the right things every day and perform at the level we are at now. We have to embrace that.

“When you reach the final stages of the season you understand the importance of every win and what you have to do,” he added. “The team is in a good emotional state and is really looking forward to playing tomorrow.”

‘VERY TOUGH TEST’

The Spanish coach highlighted the need for Arsenal to embrace its position while recognizing the task ahead against Rob Edwards’ Wolves side.

The two teams are separated by 48 points, but Arsenal needed two own goals, including one in extra time, to secure a late win in the reverse fixture in December.

“We know we are going to play a very difficult match,” Arteta said. «Our recent history with them has shown how difficult it was to win the three points. I know Rob very well and how he puts his teams together. It will be a very tough test.»

When asked about his confidence in his side’s ability to win the Premier League title, Arteta said his belief came from their continued performances in all competitions.

ARSENAL COMPETITES FOR FOUR TROPHIES

Arsenal are in contention for four trophies after progressing to the knockout stages of the Champions League as table topper and progressing to the fifth round of the FA Cup and the final of the League Cup, where they play Manchester City next month.

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“They have given me the confidence because of what we have done so far and every day,” Arteta explained.

«That’s the biggest reassurance to do it in any competition and the way we’ve done it with all the challenges we’ve already faced. It gives me confidence because it’s the way we prepare.»

«I don’t get confidence from the things I imagine, I get it from what I see every day in the preparation and also from how much the players want it. We are where we want to be, that’s for sure.»

Arteta said injured skipper Martin Odegaard and striker Kai Havertz would not make the trip to Wolves but he hoped they would return for Sunday’s derby at Tottenham Hotspur.

Riccardo Calafiori is back in training after withdrawing from the starting line-up ahead of their 4-0 FA Cup home win over Wigan Athletic on Sunday, while fellow defender Ben White has overcome a hamstring problem caused by fatigue.

Published on February 17, 2026