Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, couldn’t contain his joy and relief after his team’s hard-fought 3-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the highly anticipated North London derby. For Arteta, the win held immense personal and emotional significance, as he shared with reporters after the match, “It means everything. This is why we’re here, to experience these feelings and share them with our fans.”
Beyond the personal triumph, Arteta recognized the vital importance of the derby win for the Arsenal faithful. He acknowledged the unwavering support they have shown the team, especially during challenging periods, and expressed his deep appreciation for their unwavering belief. “The fans deserve it,” Arteta emphasized. “They have been incredible with us, and we want to make them proud.”
The victory was particularly sweet for Arsenal, as it marked their first win at Tottenham’s home ground in over a decade. It also bolstered their position in the Premier League standings, keeping them in the hunt for a top-four finish and a potential return to the UEFA Champions League.
Arteta praised his players’ resilience and character, particularly after they fell behind twice in the match. He highlighted their determination to never give up and to keep fighting until the final whistle. Granit Xhaka’s stunning long-range goal in the second half proved to be the match-winner, and Arteta singled out the Swiss midfielder for his exceptional performance.
The North London derby victory is a significant moment in Arteta’s tenure as Arsenal manager. It not only provides a much-needed boost to the team’s confidence but also strengthens Arteta’s own position at the helm. With the season still in its early stages, Arteta and his players will be eager to build on this momentum and continue their pursuit of success.