Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes his team can reach a higher level than last season after the Gunners maintained their perfect start to the Premier League campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.
Chelsea took an early lead through Morgan Rogers, but Arsenal responded with goals from Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard to secure all three points.
Speaking after the match, Arteta described the performance as exceptional and said the result had shown the potential within his squad. He added that Arsenal would need to maintain their desire, humility and commitment if they are to continue improving.
The Arsenal boss also praised Odegaard, saying the midfielder is enjoying his football and currently looks fitter and more confident than at any point he has seen him. Arteta attributed the captain’s improved form partly to the chemistry developing between him and his teammates.
Odegaard missed a significant amount of football last season, while Havertz and Bukayo Saka also endured lengthy absences. Arteta believes having key attacking players fit and available could make a major difference to Arsenal this campaign.
Havertz was also singled out for praise, with Arteta saying the German forward appears happier and more settled. He noted that Havertz is training consistently, scoring goals and contributing strongly to the team beyond his goalscoring.
With Arsenal continuing to build confidence, Arteta believes both the squad and individual players still have room to improve as they chase a stronger season.
