Mikel Arteta has made his intentions crystal clear ahead of Sunday's seismic Premier League clash at Manchester City: Arsenal are going for the win. When asked about the prospect of playing for a draw, the Gunners' boss was unequivocal. "We are not going to spend one second talking about that," he declared, setting a bold tone for a match that could define the title race.

The stakes could not be higher. After a recent stumble, Arsenal's once-comfortable lead has evaporated, with the relentless Manchester City now breathing down their necks. A victory for Pep Guardiola's side would slash the gap to just three points, and with a game in hand, the momentum would swing decisively in the champions' favor. Arteta, however, is embracing the challenge, calling it a "huge privilege" to face "arguably the best team and best manager this league has ever seen."

Arsenal head to the Etihad Stadium riding a wave of European momentum, having just secured a historic back-to-back Champions League semi-final berth with a gritty win over Sporting Lisbon. Arteta believes that continental success will fuel his squad. "It really gave us a boost... We have to use that fuel, that energy," he stated, suggesting his team will carry confidence, not fatigue, into this monumental domestic fixture.

This is more than just another game; it's a statement opportunity. Arteta has dismissed any notion of settling for a point, framing the match as a chance to prove Arsenal's mettle against the league's modern benchmark. The message from the Emirates is one of ambition and attack, promising a high-stakes tactical battle between master and protege. For fans, it's the kind of fixture that defines a season, where mentality and execution on the pitch will separate contenders from champions.