While Liverpool's form has stagnated, there is a sense that their title rival Arsenal is gradually regaining momentum. Mikel Arteta's side will host West Ham this weekend, with a run of six consecutive unbeaten matches.
Martin Odegaard's impressive return to form was the most notable highlight after the victory over Olympiakos in the Champions League at the Emirates. However, Mikel Arteta did not forget to emphasize Arsenal's record of keeping a clean sheet 11 times in the last 14 matches in the group stage of the European Cup.
"It's amazing from the players. We have won 14 matches in the group stage of the Champions League and kept a clean sheet in 11 matches, those are really telling numbers.
This shows our stability in this tournament, against really good opponents. Now we will continue to fight" - Mikel Arteta said.
Arsenal had to rely on goalkeeper David Raya with an excellent save, preventing Daniel Podence's tally in midweek. However, overall, it was a match in which the "Gunners" almost did not let the opponent create many clear opportunities. Olympiakos had a few threatening situations, but their 10 shots only brought an expected goal (xG).
Mikel Arteta's side also showed similar solidity when they beat Athletic Bilbao with the same number in the opening round. Arsenal - the team with the lowest expected goals conceded in the Champions League this season - is also holding a good position in the Premier League. They have only conceded 1 goal from live ball situations in 9 matches in all competitions.
Defensive solidity has long been a hallmark of the team led by Mikel Arteta. However, initial signs show that The Gunners' defense, which was already solid, has now become more solid, despite injuries limiting William Saliba's playing time.
Saliba's absence has caused Arsenal to lose form in previous seasons. However, Mikel Arteta's side are now well equipped to deal with similar situations. The appearance of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie helps the "Gunners" have more squad depth, ensuring quality in all positions in the defense.
Some teams can improve their defense based on what they have shown, but Arsenal are taking it a step further. The addition of attacking power and diversity in summer contracts helps them possess a solid foundation. Obviously, Arsenal promises to go even further this season.
Against West Ham, Mikel Arteta expects Arsenal to maintain impressive form. The 300th match of his coaching career will be a memorable milestone, but for Mikel Arteta, it is perhaps just a small step forward in the long journey he is building with the "Gunners".
"The emphasis is still on winning. There are decisive moments in the season, and tomorrow's match is very important for us.
Therefore, from the beginning we need to create a source of positive energy, both on the pitch and in the stands, to move towards the goal" - said the Spanish captain.
