Arteta praises ‘dangerous’ Aston Villa and Emery impact

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called Aston Villa a dangerous opponent and has praised Unai Emery’s impact at the club.

Arsenal look to continue their Premier League title challenge with a win against Aston Villa this weekend, with both teams having enjoyed excellent campaigns to date.

The Gunners moved top of the table on goal difference last weekend after beating Brighton, while Villa sit fourth and are targeting Champions League qualification.

Villa have been one of the stories of the season under Unai Emery, who endured a mixed time at Arsenal during his time as Arteta’s predecessor. The Spaniard has rebuilt his reputation in the Midlands and Arteta was full of praise for his compatriot and the progress of his team.

“What they have done since Unai came in [is good]. They have made a huge impact on the club. They are still in a European competition and I am really impressed with what they have done,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference.

“We don’t know what they are going to do [on Sunday]. They won last night and they are a good side. We know they’re dangerous and their strengths – we will try to win it.”

Arsenal play last of the three title challengers this weekend, with Manchester City hosting Luton on Saturday and Liverpool taking on Crystal Palace in the earlier fixture on Sunday.

Arteta said Arsenal are only focused on themselves and downplayed the significance of playing after their title rivals.

“We will know the results, but we have our duty to win our game and that has already happened [previously this season]. It will happen in the next few weeks [too]. We will focus on what we can control.

“It’s really good and the most beautiful part of the season. It’s a very busy schedule and Sunday we have a tough one against a really good side.”

On whether his side can handle the pressure of the Premier League title race, Arteta added: “I think it’s the motivation. They are super excited about what we are doing and the way the team is performing – they want more.

“We know the challenge ahead of us and how good we have to be to win it, but we are going to try.”

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