We take a look at two of the biggest stories over the past day involving Arsenal, including an insight into Mikel Arteta’s persuasive approach to transfer negotiations
Arsenal players might publicly dismiss talk of them being title favourites this season, but deep down they will be well aware that this is their chance to end a 21-year wait. In fact, it is highly likely that Mikel Arteta, with his unique methods, has drilled it into their collective mindset that 2025/26 is their season.
That has shone through in their performances, which has left Arteta’s men with a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after three months of action. There was certainly a kind of belief brewing among the Arsenal players as they went eight consecutive games in all competitions without conceding a goal prior to the 2-2 draw at Sunderland, which equalled a 122-year club record.
It has also been visible in the Champions League, where the north Londoners are one of three teams left with a 100% winning record after four games. There is no doubt that they are well equipped to win both competitions this season.
That’s despite their continuous injury issues, which the recent international break has exacerbated, thanks to a squad brimming with quality. And Mirror Football now brings you the latest news surrounding the Gunners ahead of a tantalising north London derby this weekend.
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Mosquera lauds Arteta
Cristhian Mosquera was Arsenal’s least high-profile signing of the summer. When the Spanish centre-half’s arrival was announced, for a mere sum of £13million, few could have predicted that he’d deliver the kind of assured performances he has managed so far in his fledgling career in north London.
Initially brought in as a back-up, Mosquera was thrown into the deep end at Anfield in August following an injury to William Saliba, where the 21-year-old’s calmness instantly eased the Gunners faithful’s nerves. His 12 appearances already this season, conceding only three goals in 10 hours of action, are a sign that he has the trust of his manager, something Arteta made clear from their very first conversation prior to his transfer.
Mosquera told The Guardian: “Before I had decided [whether to join Arsenal], someone in my camp said, ‘The moment you speak to Mikel, there’s no way he won’t convince you.’ And that’s exactly how it happened. When the call finished, my destination couldn’t have been clearer.”
He added when asked about his compatriot’s intensity: “Yes, totally, totally. He really lives for football, he was raised on it, experienced everything. You see that when he talks. He loves the detail, sees things other eyes might not. I’m so happy with him. He’s an incredible person and he’s helping me a lot. The staff have made it easy. Arsenal is an incredible club.”
Gunners chase teenage prodigy
Arteta may need to use those same powers of persuasion if Arsenal ramp up their pursuit of Olympiacos starlet Christos Mouzakitis. The Greek central midfielder, 18, quickly became an important player for the reigning champions after breaking through last term.
He has made 13 appearances this season, including a brief cameo against Arsenal when the two sides met in the Champions League in October, while registering two assists. His composure, ball-carrying ability and maturity have also earned him seven caps for the national team despite his tender age.
With scouts from all over Europe regularly being spotted at Olympiacos games, there is believed to be an impending tug of war between Arsenal, Manchester United and Aston Villa over the talent. Caughtoffside claim Arsenal have sent scouts on over ten occasions this season alone, with Arteta said to be impressed with Mouzakitis’ passing range, technical ability and work off the ball.
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