Speaking ahead of the trip to the City Ground, Arteta made it clear that title pressure, Manchester City playing earlier, and recent talking points around his squad would not change Arsenal's approach. "We know that we can only focus on what we can do," he said. "The aim is to prepare for a very, very tough match, and we have to win it."

Arteta confirmed there were no fresh injury concerns following the win over Chelsea. When asked about the availability of players who have recently missed games, including Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori, Cristhian Mosquera and Dowman, he added: "There might be. I need to meet with the medical staff and see if somebody is available for the weekend."

The Arsenal manager was full of praise for Viktor Gyokeres after the striker's recent goal and overall contribution. Arteta rejected the idea that confidence had been an issue. "He's a very demanding person. He knows the level that we need," he said. "He's been very consistent and I thought that against Chelsea he had a great game and scored the goal that helped us to win."

Arteta also addressed the scrutiny that comes with leading the line for a top club. "It's part of the expectations," he explained. "It's not only for Viktor. It's for every number nine in the league. We expect to be really good, really consistent, and to win constantly."

With Arsenal playing their fourth game in ten days and continuing a run of away fixtures, Arteta admitted squad management had been crucial. "Sometimes you want to plan everything, but sometimes it's just impossible and you have to go game by game," he said. "We have more players back now and better options, and that is very helpful."

Looking ahead to Nottingham Forest, Arteta had strong words for Sean Dyche and his side. "A top coach, really good at what he does," he said. "They have a very clear identity, they are very efficient and they make things extremely difficult for you. It's a very tough match."

Arteta was also asked about Arsenal's belief as they continue to compete on multiple fronts. "Belief comes from performances and consistency," he said. "We have shown that throughout 32 games already this season. But the reality is that you have to show it in every game. We're glad we are still alive in all four competitions."

The Arsenal boss reserved special praise for Martin Zubimendi, highlighting his impact at both ends of the pitch. "He has earned the respect of everybody very quickly," Arteta said. "He's humble, focused, incredibly consistent, and he's surprising people with his ability to attack the box."

On Arsenal's defensive record and continued threat from set pieces, Arteta stressed organisation and evolution. "There is no secret," he said. "It's about commitment and constantly adapting. The amount of games decided in that phase of play is higher than ever."

Finally, Arteta played down reports of a tunnel disagreement involving Declan Rice and a member of the coaching staff. "All sorted, all good," he said. "It shows how much they want to win, and that's a good thing."

For Arteta, the message was clear: no noise, no excuses, just another test to be faced head-on.

Preview: Bafana hope a win over Zimbabwe can put them top of Group C