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Arteta praises Arsenal grip on top spot after festive run

By on January 9, 2026

Mikel Arteta arsenal

Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal should feel proud of their league position after navigating the busy Christmas period without defeat.

The Gunners remain top of the Premier League table following a goalless draw against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium.

While Arsenal missed the chance to stretch their lead further, the result still kept their title push firmly on track.

Manchester City and Aston Villa remain six points behind Arsenal, while Liverpool now trail by a much wider margin.

The north London side continue their push to end a long wait for the Premier League title with steady form.

The manager highlighted the importance of staying strong during a period known for dropping points.

Arteta reflects on demanding festive schedule

Speaking after the match, Arteta spoke positively about how his side handled the Christmas workload. Arsenal faced several tough opponents during that run, with little recovery time between matches.

The manager stressed that perfection is not realistic in a league as demanding as the Premier League.

“We’ve come from a very demanding schedule,” Arteta said. “The last six games that we’ve played in this Christmas period, and we’ve come out of that in a really strong position.”

“We have to be proud of that position. There are things to improve as always and we keep going.”

“You want to take all the opportunities but if that is the case you’d be 12, 15 points clear. This is the Premier League and we know how difficult it is.”

Arsenal have shown they can manage expectations while continuing to chase improvement.

Arsenal aim to keep title momentum going

Arsenal now turn their attention to sustaining momentum as the season moves into its second half. Arteta knows the league table can change quickly with one poor run of form.

Arsenal have finished second in recent seasons and remain determined to take the final step and land their first title since 2004.

Arteta believes those qualities are vital during tight matches against top opponents. The draw with Liverpool may not have brought maximum reward, but it avoided a damaging setback.