Mikel Arteta: The hunger and ambition at Arsenal is bigger than ever

Champions Arsenal kick off Matchday 6 when they host Leeds on Saturday at 14:30. It marks the Gunners' return following the international break and manager Mikel Arteta's first match since extending his contract with the club. Facing the media, the Spaniard was inevitably asked about the situation at former club Manchester City, where he served as Pep Guardiola's assistant during part of the period for which the Citizens were recently found guilty of financial breaches.

On his new contract
"It's an immense honour. My family and I are extremely grateful to continue enjoying this incredible journey, which started almost seven years ago. From the very beginning, I said the club and I wanted the exact same thing. I've always maintained that when you're deciding on your future, the most important thing is looking around the room when signing and seeing smiles on everyone's faces and excitement in their eyes. That's what I felt from Stan and Josh Kroenke, then Rich Garlick, our CEO, James King, director of football operations, and Andrea Berta, sporting director, as well as the staff and the players. Every single day we have to prove we deserve to be at this level."

On whether he ever considered not renewing
"Sometimes you have to pause and ask yourself: 'How long can you keep doing this?' And not just that, but how long can you keep doing it specifically here? Do you have the necessary desire and energy? How do the people around you look at you when you speak to them? My answer was positive. If that feeling changes one day, we'll assess it. That's all there is to it, it's that simple."

On building a dynasty at Arsenal
"That's something you have to fight for every single day. We know our current level and what the standards are, but the enthusiasm, passion, and energy are even greater."

His proudest achievement – the connection with the fans or trophies?
"It's about the way we achieved it all. Right now, everyone feels part of something with strong unity. The club has a clear identity, ambition, and direction of where we want to go."

On whether he will manage long into the future
"I don't know. I'm still very young, and this is my first managerial job. It probably depends on how I perceive my profession. People talk about pressure and stress, and I understand what they mean. But I don't associate my job with those things. I've experienced many different moments. It all comes down to the passion I have for the game, as well as my ambition, determination, and aspirations. It's a genuine privilege to do this every day. For now, I don't feel the time has come to stop."

On whether he will still be at Arsenal in 20 years
"I think about today and, hopefully, tomorrow. That's how we have to approach this job. You have to enjoy the journey – that's the biggest lesson I've learned over the years. The greatest gift is the people around me, who make me feel loved and allow me to enjoy what I do."

On whether he thinks about taking a break from football
"A break? Stopping what I do? Right now, that doesn't even cross my mind because I love my job so much. Every morning I wake up and feel that energy. Many people tell me, 'Mikel, you need to rest,' and things like that. But honestly, sometimes I take some time off during the day, come back, start working on something, and my energy actually increases because I love what I do. That's the beauty of doing something you are truly passionate about. That's why I feel extremely lucky to be where I am."

On the verdict against Manchester City
"I completely understand the question, but it's crucial to respect the procedure, the timeline, and a process that is still ongoing since the decision has been appealed. My position, as well as the club's, is not to make any further comments until the matter is resolved."

On whether City's situation benefits Arsenal
"That is not up to us. What is down to us is our preparation – ensuring all our internationals returned in the best possible shape to beat Leeds. That is where our full focus lies."

On whether the saga has damaged the Premier League
"There is an ongoing procedure that hasn't concluded yet. We will be able to have a clear position once everything is resolved. For now, I'm not prepared to comment."

On the importance of financial regulations
"The Premier League is the best league in the world for many reasons. I've been here for over 20 years, and it will continue to be the best league in the world. I feel privileged to be where I am. There are several clubs, like Brighton and Brentford, who are doing exceptionally well and managing their resources very smartly. We experienced that first-hand against Brighton a few weeks ago."

Arsenal team news and injury updates
"With Declan Rice, we have to manage his workload. Since returning from the World Cup, he's had a few issues. We know how many games he has played over the last three years, so resting him was the sensible decision. I hope he will be available, along with a few other players who are doubts."

"Kai Havertz picked up a muscle injury. Ezri Konsa also had some issues, and our communication with the England staff was very good. Tzolis has a muscle injury and will be out for several weeks, so he won't be available."

"However, Hincapie and Mosquera are ready. Both pushed hard to be available for the Brighton game, but we decided not to risk them then. Ben White is also available."

Is the Premier League still the best league in the world?
"One hundred per cent."