“If they want to defend, they make sure to defend….”- Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta deliver honest admission to Daniel Farke Amid upcoming clash

Mikel Arteta Hints at Arsenal Game Plan Ahead of Leeds United Clash
By Kwadwo Hemeng, The Leeds Press – January 31, 2026

When Leeds United faced Arsenal in the early weeks of this season, the outcome was far from ideal. It was only the Whites’ second Premier League game.

Leeds had been riding high after a strong opening-day victory over Everton at Elland Road, but their trip to the Emirates Stadium turned disastrous as they suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat. While the scoreline was harsh, it reflected Arsenal’s ruthlessness in punishing basic mistakes. It served as an early reality check for Daniel Farke’s squad.

Now, the two sides are set to meet again on Saturday, this time at Elland Road. Arsenal altered their travel plans on Friday, opting for a 200-mile coach journey instead of flying to Leeds, taking the longer route ahead of the clash.

Arsenal’s Approach: Arteta Gives Tactical Insight

Arsenal will be looking to bounce back and preserve their top spot in the title race, while Leeds aim to secure a result after West Ham closed the gap last week. Both teams have evolved since their first encounter; the Whites have improved considerably, and Arsenal remain the league’s most consistent side.

Ahead of the game, Mikel Arteta offered insight into how his team might approach the match:

“It depends on what the game demands. You can be vertical when the opponent behaves a certain way. When there are 10 players in the box, you can’t play vertically. You might shoot from the edge, create chaos in the box, or generate set-pieces. It all depends on how the opposition behaves and the opportunities you have in relation to space and time.”

Can Leeds Spring a Surprise?

Elland Road is notoriously difficult for visiting Premier League sides. Leeds have earned more than half their points at home this season and consistently produce their best performances there. Even top teams have struggled; Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United have all dropped points at Elland Road this term.

Saturday’s match is unlikely to be straightforward for Arsenal, and the Whites will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage to upset the league leaders.