In each of the past four Premier League campaigns, Arsenal have recorded more points than the season before: from a nadir of 56 points (eighth) after Arteta took over midway through the 2019-20, to 61 points (eighth), to 69 points (fifth), to 84 points (second) to 89 points (second) last season, just two points behind champions Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola has denied that a rift has developed in his relationship with Mikel Arteta despite a number of bruising encounters between his Manchester City team and Arsenal.

William Gallas has confessed he is struggling to make sense of Arsenal ’s decision to sanction the signing of Martin Zubimendi. The Gunners are understood to have ringfenced £51 million ahead of the summer window in order to sign the Spain international midfielder.