Mikel Arteta: Arsenal now under pressure to win FA Cup

Mikel Arteta admits that Arsenal’s position as favourites to win the FA Cup this season has put more pressure on Arsene Wenger’s men.

The Gunners face Wigan Athletic in next month’s semi-final, with Hull City and Sheffield United the other two teams left in the competition.

We know we are favourites [for the FA Cup]. We know that puts more pressure on us

Mikel Arteta

Arsenal have not lifted a major trophy since their FA Cup final triumph over Manchester United back in 2005.

And Arteta feels that the fact that the north Londoners are now the favourites to win the competition has increased the pressure on the club.

“We have two competitions that we are still in,” said Arteta. “We want to fight for the league, for sure, and we have a great chance in the FA Cup as well. So we need to enjoy the moment and make the most of it because I think we can do something good.

“We know we are favourites [for the FA Cup]. We know that puts more pressure on us but we are happy with the win in the quarter-final. There is still a month to go [until the semi-final] and there are some tough games coming up.

“That’s why it is important to get some momentum for that moment and go there with belief and in good form.”

The Spanish midfielder admitted that winning a trophy this season could change Arsenal’s fortunes.

“I think it would be a turning point for the club,” he continued.

“[If we won a trophy] it would give you a lift, give you belief that you can start to go in the right direction and hopefully we can do it.”