Arsenal must elevate their game this season if they are to secure the Premier League title after narrowly missing out twice, according to manager Mikel Arteta. Ahead of their season opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, Arteta emphasized the need for his team to surpass last season's achievements. Despite finishing with 89 points and improving both their goal-scoring and defensive records, Arsenal once again ended up as runners-up to Manchester City.
Arteta stressed that last season's performance levels will not suffice if Arsenal are to dethrone Manchester City, especially as the competition becomes increasingly tough. He mentioned that his players are determined to go further, having committed to giving even more after last season's disappointment. The Gunners are considered strong contenders to break City's dominance and prevent Pep Guardiola's side from claiming a fifth consecutive title.
New defensive signing Riccardo Calafiori is expected to make his debut against Wolves, while Dutch fullback Jurrien Timber is available for selection after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for nearly a year. However, Arsenal will have to cope without defenders Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney for the match.
Wolves, managed by Gary O'Neil, are also dealing with significant changes after the summer departures of winger Pedro Neto to Chelsea and defender Max Kilman to West Ham United. O'Neil acknowledged the challenges posed by these transfers but is focused on maximizing the potential of his current squad to compete effectively in the upcoming season.
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