Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal have retained their hunger for silverware after the champions opened their Premier League title defence with a commanding 3-0 victory over newly promoted Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium on Friday.

Kai Havertz opened the scoring in the 15th minute before Bukayo Saka doubled Arsenal’s lead eight minutes later. Captain Martin Ødegaard added a third shortly after half-time to complete a comfortable victory.

The result gave Arsenal an ideal start to their campaign. Arteta was particularly pleased with the intensity and control his players showed from the opening whistle.

Arteta Praises Arsenal’s Dominance

Arteta said the players looked similar to last season but had shown an even greater desire to succeed.

The Arsenal manager highlighted the team’s pressing and ability to control the match. He described the performance as impressive because of the players’ clarity and understanding.

Arsenal dominated possession and repeatedly opened gaps in Coventry’s defence. The champions also created several opportunities after establishing a two-goal advantage.

Havertz and Saka Set the Tone

Havertz gave Arsenal the breakthrough after Riccardo Calafiori created the opening. Saka then made it 2-0 after goalkeeper Carl Rushworth could only parry a low cross into his path.

Ødegaard added the third four minutes after the interval. His finish effectively ended Coventry’s hopes of mounting a comeback.

New winger Christos Tzolis also impressed on his Premier League debut. The Greek forward was involved in Arsenal’s second goal and posed a constant threat from the left.

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New Signing Adds to Arsenal’s Strength

Arsenal also showcased their growing squad depth before the match by presenting new signing Ezri Konsa to supporters.

Konsa joined from Aston Villa and was unveiled before kick-off. Arteta described the England defender as a player the club greatly admires.

The manager praised Konsa’s defensive qualities and personality. He also rejected suggestions that Arsenal’s victory automatically made them stronger than every title rival.

Arteta said several competing teams have extremely strong and larger squads. His focus, he added, remains on improving Arsenal and finding players who can give the team an advantage.

Champions Send Early Warning

Arsenal’s performance offered an early indication of their ambitions after winning the Premier League title last season. They controlled Coventry for long periods and showed little sign of easing their intensity despite building a comfortable lead.

Arteta’s side also benefited from the return of key players, while Tzolis provided an encouraging glimpse of what the club’s new additions can offer.

The victory marked Arteta’s 150th Premier League win as Arsenal manager, placing him among a small group of managers to reach the milestone in fewer than 250 matches.

For Coventry, the defeat marked a difficult return to the Premier League after a 25-year absence. The newly promoted side will look to improve quickly as the season progresses.

Arteta, meanwhile, will expect his players to maintain the same hunger as Arsenal begin their bid to retain the Premier League crown.