Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has insisted his team still believes it can win the Premier League title despite surrendering first place to Manchester City.

Manchester City moved to the top of the table after their 1-0 win over Burnley on Wednesday.

Arsenal are level on points with City but trail on goals scored, meaning they can return to first place if they avoid defeat against Newcastle United on Saturday.

Less than two weeks ago, Arsenal were considered favourites to win the league after opening a nine-point lead over City.

However, costly defeats against Bournemouth and Manchester City have left their title hopes no longer in their own hands.

The North London side also lost strong positions in the 2023 and 2024 title races, allowing City to claim the trophy both times.

Despite the setback, Arteta said belief remains high in the squad.

According to him, Arsenal must focus on winning their remaining matches and keep pressure on City.

He said there are still five games left to play and the team is fully committed to fighting until the end.

Arteta added that Arsenal are still competing in two major competitions and have every reason to stay motivated.

The Gunners will also face Atletico Madrid next Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
 

Arsenal are expected to be boosted by the return of Bukayo Saka and Riccardo Calafiori from injury against Newcastle.

Saka has missed the last five matches with an Achilles problem, while Calafiori has been sidelined for three games.

Meanwhile, City appear to be hitting top form at the right time, while Arsenal have managed only one win in their last six matches in all competitions.

Arteta also recalled winning the Scottish Premiership with Rangers on goal difference in 2003, saying dramatic title triumphs are possible until the final day.

He urged his players to give everything in the remaining fixtures and make the opportunity count.