Arsenal can swiftly regain top spot when they host Newcastle United at the Emirates on Saturday evening after Manchester City leapfrogged them with a win against Burnley on Wednesday night.
Arteta’s side are at risk of losing three straight top-flight games for the first time in four years and will aim to bounce back against a Newcastle side that still aren’t safe from relegation this season.
Saka set for return
Speaking first on team news, he confirmed that Bukayo Saka could return this weekend after a number of weeks on the sidelines.
“No (issues). Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad. So good news. Riccardo (Calafiori) is in the squad; Jurrien (Timber) is not.
"Yeah, we have given him some time. It was a moment where he was struggling to maintain the performances. He has some time for himself."
How Arteta is motivating Arsenal
Saka could face a Newcastle side that have failed to win any of their last 13 away league games at Arsenal, who could complete the double over Newcastle for the first time since 2020/21 with a victory on Saturday.
Arteta, who is keen to help get his side back to their usual selves, next spoke on how he is motivating his squad.
“Five games to go, tomorrow game one, all in, let's go for it! Win tomorrow, game one win, and we will be much closer. I believe in our players, in our people to achieve what we want.”
"Every game, we do something different to inspire them, to guide them. The specific topic on the day. This group, we don't have to do much to be fair."
"Everything to win, in the position that we are. I think that's a simple answer."