Arteta Throws Down Challenge to Arsenal Squad After Historic 10-Game Winning Streak
Mikel Arteta urged Arsenal to maintain their upward trajectory following a commanding 3-0 victory against Slavia Prague in the Champions League, extending their winning streak to 10 matches across all competitions.
The North London side secured their ninth consecutive clean sheet while dominating in the Czech Republic's capital, with Bukayo Saka converting a first-half spot-kick before Mikel Merino, operating as an improvised forward, added two goals in the second period.
Arsenal's impenetrable defensive display established a new 122-year club milestone, though Arteta remained grounded in his post-match assessment, emphasizing that his squad must maintain their hunger for continuous development.
"Our appetite remains unsatisfied," he declared following the match. "There's room for enhancement and superior execution. This mentality is essential, and while we're content with our current trajectory, I'm far from complacent. We can elevate our play, strengthen our defensive work, and today we could have executed certain aspects better in the attacking third.
"It's particularly challenging against this opposition. However, I'm extremely satisfied for multiple reasons—clearly maintaining our Champions League winning momentum without surrendering a goal, especially at such a demanding venue.
"We emphasized maintaining emotional discipline and avoiding frustration during this type of encounter, knowing opportunities would arise given their tactical setup, and we can certainly reflect on another outstanding display."
When questioned about Arsenal's historic defensive achievement, Arteta elaborated: "Significant effort underlies this accomplishment. What's most gratifying isn't necessarily the milestone itself, but rather the players' mentality. They're discussing how we can continue progressing. There were one or two instances we could have handled more effectively.
"By addressing those areas, we can keep advancing and give this record greater significance."
Arteta Celebrates Teenage Record-Setter Dowman
The Arsenal boss also highlighted Max Dowman's exceptional achievement, as the youngster became the Champions League's youngest-ever participant at 15 years and 308 days—surpassing Youssoufa Moukoko's previous record set during Borussia Dortmund's encounter with Zenit St. Petersburg in 2020 at 16 years and 18 days.
Dowman delivered a mature 20-minute cameo, succeeding in four ground battles while earning several set-pieces for his team.
"I wasn't aware of that milestone until just now," Arteta commented regarding Dowman's historic Champions League debut. "But it's hardly shocking. What impressed me most was his performance quality. He entered the game, began receiving possession, stretched the opposition, and earned fouls. That's what matters—not chronological age, but the character and bravery required to compete at this standard, and I'm thrilled to have him.
"Naturally, we're extremely pleased to witness his debut, along with Andre's, and all the substitutes who maintained our performance level."
He concluded: "His birth certificate is irrelevant. Place him in this environment and he demonstrates the ability to adjust and deliver a strong showing."