Mikel Arteta says Arsenal have been preparing for a Premier League title challenge since before pre-season, as they get ready for a potentially decisive clash with Sunderland that could extend their lead at the top to nine points.

After finishing runners-up in each of the past three seasons, the Arsenal manager revealed he believed his side could finally end their long wait for the title before the current campaign even began. The north London club now sit six points clear of Manchester City as they chase their first league crown since 2003–04.

Arteta said the squad has remained united and focused, refusing to be distracted by the pressure of the title race and instead concentrating on steady, day-by-day progress.

“Before pre-season started, we planned everything with the intention of being where we are now,” Arteta said on Friday. “We wanted to make sure the players believed we could achieve it.

“Then it’s about taking it day by day. I don’t like making comparisons with past teams. This is an amazing group and they’re doing an incredible job.

“We’re very excited and privileged to be together, and we’re going to enjoy this journey until the last day of the season.”

Sunderland pose tough test

Before Arsenal can think about extending their lead, Arteta knows his side must overcome a strong Sunderland team that currently sit eighth following their promotion last season.

Under head coach Regis Le Bris, Sunderland have impressed by holding Arsenal, Manchester City and defending champions Liverpool to draws, while also remaining unbeaten in 12 home matches.

“It’s going to be a really tough game,” Arteta said ahead of Saturday’s fixture. “They’ve been on an incredible run all season and we know how complex this match will be.

“They are extremely competitive and very well coached. They have strong individual players and a clear identity in how they want to play.

“The results they’ve had against the top teams show what they’re capable of, so we know what to expect and we have to deliver.”

Injury updates

Arteta also provided an update on several key players ahead of the match.

Bukayo Saka is making progress with a hip issue but is not yet ready to return, while captain Martin Ødegaard remains sidelined with a minor problem. Right-back Jurrien Timber, however, is fit and available.

Midfielder Mikel Merino will be out for several months following surgery on a fractured foot, a setback Arteta described as “a big blow” for the squad.

Merino had become an important option for Arsenal, contributing goals and even filling in as a striker during injury problems earlier in the season.

“Mikel gives us something different,” Arteta said. “He’s going to be out for a while, so we need to support him and keep him connected to the group.

“He can still add a lot of value to the players and staff by being around.”