Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is determined not to let the team’s three-match winless run in the Premier League affect his players, emphasizing the need to stay grounded as they chase their first English top-flight title since 2003-04.

Sunday’s 2-1 home defeat to Manchester United cut Arsenal’s lead at the top to four points over Manchester City and Aston Villa. Despite the setback, Arteta stressed the importance of keeping a long-term perspective on the season.

“It’s about understanding where you are,” Arteta told reporters on Friday, ahead of Sunday’s trip to Leeds United. “Certainly when you lose a game you have a lot of feelings, especially this group of players because they are so competitive. They search for excellence, and when you don’t reach it, you ask questions, and we did that.

“My role is to bring optimism and reality of where we are. Our club has a long, long history, and to find ourselves in this position in February is something special.”

Arsenal, meanwhile, continued their strong run in Europe by defeating Kairat Almaty 3-2 on Wednesday, completing a perfect eight wins in the Champions League group stage and securing top spot in their group. The north London club is also competing on multiple domestic fronts, including the FA Cup and the League Cup.

“We’re doing a lot of things really well,” Arteta said. “Let’s focus on that, and of course we want to improve—but with self-confidence and conviction that we’re on the right path.”

Playing with Freedom and Enjoyment

Defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, who were rested against Kairat due to minor injuries, are fit for the Leeds trip. Sixteen-year-old winger Max Dowman remains the only player sidelined.

Leeds, who suffered a 5-0 defeat at Arsenal in August, have since improved markedly, beating Chelsea, drawing twice with Liverpool, and holding Manchester United. The Yorkshire side are now six points clear of the relegation zone, losing only once in their last 11 matches across all competitions.

Despite Leeds’ resurgence, Arteta urged his players to shrug off pressure and play with “freedom and enjoyment,” reassured by the support of the coaching staff.

“We need to make sure the journey is beautiful because what lies ahead is great,” Arteta said. “Everyone needs to be part of that, in a good sense, with humour, optimism, and looking forward to it.”