Mikel Arteta insists he is only focused on victory over Newcastle United when asked about his 'dream' for Arsenal in the New Year. The Gunners have moved seven points clear of defending champions Manchester City at the top of the Premier League following their comfortable away victory at Brighton.
Arsenal have lost just once in the league, and are nine points ahead of the Magpies in third spot with a game in hand on Eddie Howe's side. The sides meet at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, with the league leaders looking for a third straight win after the World Cup break.
Such form has inevitably led to growing talk over Arsenal lifting their first Premier League title since 2004, despite City's domination under Pep Guardiola in recent years. Arteta was reluctant to discuss his end-of-season targets for his young and exciting team, arguing the focus always has to be on the next match starting with Newcastle.
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When asked what he dreams of achieving with Arsenal in 2023, he told reporters: "To win against Newcastle! And then the next one, and the next one. That's the dream, and obviously for all of my loved ones and everyone around the club [to] feel healthy, satisfied and enjoys life which is beautiful."
The Magpies missed out on a chance to secure their seventh straight Premier League win with a frustrating home draw against Leeds United on New Year's Eve. Arsenal kicked off at the Amex Stadium after both City and Newcastle dropped points, and Arteta admits his team were aware of the results before their 4-2 win over the Seagulls.
Asked if his team watched either of the matches, the Arsenal boss answered: "I don't know, I'm not in the dressing room a lot with them. But everyone knew the results, that I guarantee you."
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