Wolves win a ‘sign of greatness’ for Arsenal, claims Arteta

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says the Gunners matchday one victory against Wolves was a sign of “a top, top team”.

The Spanish tactician oversaw Arsenal’s winning first league fixture for the third successive season; the first time since 2010 thanks to goals from the duo of Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.

Reacting to the crucial win, Arteta told Arsenal.com that he took a lot of positives from the game. He added, “I thought, especially in the first half, we had a really strong performance, created a lot of situations, and conceded a big chance, that’s true. Overall, with the 1-0 it wasn’t enough and credit to Wolves, they put some pressure [on us].

“They forced us into two easy giveaways, especially in the middle of the park, they created a bit of uncertainty for the team, and when we were in that moment, Bukayo creates an unbelievable moment to score the second one.

“If you want to become a top, top team, then you need to be consistent in winning and have to find ways [to win] and we certainly did that in the second half.

“In the Premier League, you have to fight and dig in, and every game is a nightmare, and you have to be very clear with that. Today, we played a really good opponent – look at the players that they brought on in the second half. So, you really have to earn it, and we have earned it. We won, we take a lot of positives, we move.”

Reflecting on Kai’s display, he added: “A really strong performance. I think overall, his understanding, his link-up play and the way he takes the ball under pressure all the time is magnificent. Then, it’s a number nine’s goal; his position, timing, aggression and the quality that he has to score.

“We wanted to start well, we have done it, and the squad is fit and available. There’s a lot of players that have played in the Euros and they want to play and contribute, so a big credit to everybody.”