Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta shoots down Saka and Martinelli with dose of harsh reality

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has told his top stars that they won’t be considered among Europe’s elite unless they start winning things. Arteta issued the rallying cry ahead of the Gunners’ trip to the London Stadium to face West Ham United on Sunday.

Arsenal can extend their lead over Manchester City at the Premier League summit back to six points, having played a game more, with a win against their London rivals.

But a daunting visit to the Etihad Stadium for what could be a title decider at the end of April is looming as Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions hunt down the treble.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s productivity in front of goal has been a significant factor in Arsenal’s challenge for a first title since 2004.

Saka has registered 12 goals and 10 assists in the Premier League, while Martinelli has produced 14 goals and four assists of his own.

However, Arteta has played down talk that the electric duo are in the same conversation as Europe’s best wingers, like Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., because they haven’t yet won anything.

“No [Saka and Martinelli aren’t among Europe’s elite yet] – as you have to win a lot. My players know that.

“They know they have to win. And after winning, they have to win again. And after winning again, they have to win… again and again and again. That’s it.

“This is what these other guys have been doing for a such long time. That’s what they are known for.”

Amid the overwhelming pressure to hold off the eternally more experienced City in the title race, Arteta believes in his players to avoid ending an impressive season without silverware.

“I have full trust in them because they have given me every reason to believe that when an opportunity comes, they’re going to take it,” Arteta explained.

“The beautiful thing is to actually have the opportunity to win things with your football club. That should bring you excitement. It should bring you alive. It’s about how much you want it.”

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