Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, has openly discussed the team's performance this season, stating that they have 'gone a step backwards' in the Premier League. Despite a strong finish in the previous seasons, Arsenal is currently trailing significantly behind Liverpool, the current champions.

Premier League Performance

Arsenal's points tally this season is notably lower than the past two seasons. 'In the Premier League we've gone a step backwards,' Arteta admitted. 'With the points that we have created it is clear that we have not done as good as last season, and that's obvious.'

Champions League Campaign

Following their exit from the Champions League semi-finals against Paris St-Germain, Arteta remains confident in his team's capabilities. 'One hundred per cent,' he said when asked if Arsenal was the best team in the competition this season. 'I'm watching it back, I'm watching all the statistics.'

Future Outlook

Arteta also discussed the team's future plans and the need to improve to compete at the highest level. 'It is actually about making it happen and making it count,' he emphasized. The manager also acknowledged Liverpool's dominance this season and plans to give them a guard of honour in their upcoming match.

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