Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says his side is now just one victory away from clinching the Premier League title after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Burnley FC at the Emirates Stadium on Monday night.
A second-half goal from Kai Havertz secured all three points for the Gunners and moved them within touching distance of a first league title since 2004.
Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted Burnley made life difficult despite Arsenal dominating large portions of the game.
“We were very unfortunate not to score two or three goals in the first half,” Arteta said.
“I knew it was going to be tough. We played some of the best football we’ve played this season, but we had to remain defensively efficient and make sure we didn’t give anything away.”
The Spaniard praised his team’s defensive discipline, highlighting their impressive run without conceding from open play.
“The desire every player shows in their defensive duties is phenomenal. The way they work for each other has been incredible,” he said.
Arteta also reserved special praise for Havertz, who returned to the starting line-up and scored the winning goal.
“I had a feeling he had to start. The way they set up, I thought he could be really difficult to handle, and he showed that,” Arteta explained.
The Arsenal boss said the team’s mentality has been crucial throughout a season disrupted by injuries.
“We have missed exceptional players for long periods this season, but despite that, we are one game away from winning the Premier League. That shows how strong the mindset of this team is.”
Arsenal could officially be crowned champions if AFC Bournemouth take points off Manchester City FC on Tuesday night.
Arteta joked that he would be Bournemouth’s “biggest supporter” for the evening.
“For Andoni Iraola and all the Bournemouth supporters, I think we all are,” he said.
Despite the mounting pressure, Arteta said his side remains focused on finishing the job themselves if needed.
“Since the Man City away game, we said it is five games. We’ve done four, there is one to go,” he said.
The emotional atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium after the club’s final home game of the season also left a lasting impression on the Arsenal manager.
“It’s incredible to witness what we have created in this stadium. I’m so proud of that,” Arteta added.
