Mikel Arteta has called on Arsenal supporters to rise early and create an electric atmosphere for Saturday's 12:30 kick-off against Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium. A win would put the Gunners 12 points clear at the Premier League summit. The manager emphasized the match's importance amid their title push.
Arsenal head into the lunchtime fixture off a midweek Champions League first-leg victory over Sporting, rebounding from recent defeats to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final and Southampton in the FA Cup. Arteta praised his players' response, saying, 'We felt they didn’t need much because the reaction was top.' He noted their understanding of past losses and strong showing against Sporting helped refocus the squad. Arsenal sit top with 70 points from 31 games, bolstered by Manchester City's draw against West Ham last weekend. City face Chelsea on Sunday and hold a game in hand, but Arteta stressed the opportunity ahead. 'The closer we get, the relevance and importance of the match increases,' he said. 'Tomorrow is a big day for us.' Addressing early kick-offs at the Emirates, where crowds sometimes build slowly, Arteta made a direct plea. 'Get up early, have an early breakfast, bring your lunch and let’s go altogether for it,' he urged fans. He added that supporters must bring energy and commitment, as 'the team will respond beautifully to that.' Bournemouth arrive unbeaten in 11 league matches, holding 13th place. Arsenal were the last Premier League side to defeat them, back in January.
