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Mikel Arteta has challenged his Arsenal squad to aim for second place in the Premier League this season, stating: "If you cannot be the best, be the second best at least." Despite falling 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool after a three-game winless streak, Arteta remains optimistic.

Chelsea, who are just three points behind Arsenal, pose a threat as they prepare to face off at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta, whose team has finished second in the past two seasons, warned: "They [Chelsea] are contenders to finish second.



How many teams are now competing for second?

There's a lot of teams still involved."

When questioned about the importance of finishing second if Champions League football is already secured, the Spaniard responded: "It does.

"I prefer to finish first than second, second than third, third than fourth.

That's for sure.

"We're going to really have to think hard to understand 'okay what is missing, what is really working and how we're going to now make the next step'."

Reflecting on Arsenal's 5-0 thrashing of Chelsea in this fixture last season, Arteta said: "I think it's going to be a very different game and I think the way they develop as a team as well is very impressive.

"What Enzo has done and the coaching staff, the amount of talent that they have in the squad.
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