With Arsenal top of the table on 79 points from 36 games and Manchester City just behind on 77, the pressure at the top remains intense. But Arteta made it clear that his side are not looking beyond the next game.

"Nothing; we focus just on the things that are in our hands, which is preparing the best possible way to beat Burnley, that's it," he said when asked about City's recent result.

"Only Burnley matters"

Arteta repeatedly returned to the same message throughout his pre-match press conference: control what you can, and ignore everything else.

Asked about potential scenarios later in the week, he dismissed the idea of planning ahead.

"We prefer just to beat Burnley, that's it," he said. "We're not thinking about that type of thing. The only focus is Burnley and winning the game. That's what we can control."

He added that the squad are in a strong emotional place as the season reaches its final stretch.

"The team is really present. It's living the moment. It's emotionally in a really good state. Most players are available now," Arteta explained. "Everybody is enthusiastic and positive about the way we can finish the season."

Injury concerns at right-back

One of the biggest setbacks for Arsenal has been the injury to Ben White, which Arteta confirmed is likely to keep him out for a significant period.

"We have to wait and see, but it looks like a long-term injury," he said. "The focus is can we have him back for Arsenal, and that's not going to happen in many, many weeks."

That situation leaves Arsenal short of natural options at right-back, forcing tactical flexibility in the final matches.

"We need to look at alternatives," Arteta admitted. "The two players we have in that position are not available, so we need to do something else. We have experienced that all over the pitch this season, and still managed consistency, so I'm sure we will do that again."

He also mentioned that options such as Riccardo Calafiori remain uncertain for Monday.

"We don't know yet if he will be available. Hopefully it's nothing serious, but we have to wait and see."

Flexibility across the pitch

Arteta hinted that further tactical reshuffles could be required, with versatility becoming key in the final games.

"Mosquera playing at right-back? There are different options depending on the opponent and what I want to do," he said. "Not just one option, but two or three, because games can change and injuries can happen."

He also referenced earlier experiments, including using players like Declan Rice in different roles when needed, stressing that judging such changes requires caution.

"The sample is so tiny. It's very difficult to judge a player from low minutes," he said. "It depends. We need to find the balance."

Reset after Manchester City defeat

Arsenal's recent defeat to Manchester City was described by Arteta as a turning point rather than a setback.

"It was a reset moment," he said. "The performance was there, and we deserved much more. But we used that as fuel to be even more convinced."

He added that the response since then has been strong.

"Let's learn from every bit of it and use it for the last five games. That's what remains, and we have every chance."

Goal difference and fine margins

With the title race tight, Arteta acknowledged that goal difference could still play a role, but stressed that winning matches comes first.

"You have to earn the right to win the game," he said. "Obviously scoring more goals helps, but we've had very tough matches. Ideally, scoring goals is going to be important."

Strong bond with supporters

Arteta also praised the atmosphere created by supporters, particularly a recent moment where fans gathered to greet the team coach before a match.

"I loved it. The players loved it. It builds an energy connection we haven't experienced before," he said. "The passion from our supporters was different. It really helped."

He added that the emotional connection between players and fans has lifted the squad during a demanding season.

"One opportunity at a time"

Despite questions about whether Arsenal are close to the title, Arteta refused to look beyond Monday's fixture.

"I feel we have another opportunity on Monday to take a step closer, and that's the only thing," he said.

For Arsenal, the equation is simple: beat Burnley, maintain pressure at the top, and keep control of a title race that remains finely balanced heading into the final stages of the season.

Orlando Pirates midfielder Ben Motshwari joins AmaZulu on season-long loan