Mikel Arteta makes Liverpool admission as Arsenal face giving new champions guard of honour

Mikel Arteta has revealed his plans to ‘delay’ 's title celebrations for as long as possible - even beyond the Gunners trip to Anfield in May. ’s side are on the verge of being crowned champions for the second time.

has put the Reds 13 points clear, meaning they need just one more victory to secure the trophy. That could come this Sunday, ironically against ’s fierce rivals .

Should that happen, that could potentially see Arsenal side give Liverpool a guard of honour when they come together on Merseyside on May 11. Asked about the prospect of that, Arteta has vowed to keep pushing his side to ensure Liverpool are made to wait.

Speaking to Optus Sport after his , the Spanish coach said: "All we can do is delay that moment and from our side earn the right to finish as high as possible.”

While Arteta is hoping to delay Liverpool’s celebrations, Arne Slot’s stance is understandably very different. The Dutchman has revealed he is very keen on his side getting the job done this weekend.

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“The only thing the fans want is us winning the league,” he said after the win vs . “After one league title in 35 years with them not being involved because of COVID.

“They were involved, but not as much as they probably wanted. Every moment that it happens, it would be special for them. [I am] definitely looking forward to next week because I assume that Arsenal, because they are such a good team, are able to win during the week. We probably have to do it ourselves and the first chance we have is next week against Tottenham.”

Liverpool could even win the league ahead of their next game, with Arsenal in action against in midweek. Should Arsenal draw with the Eagles on Wednesday evening, it would produce a situation where the Gunners would need to win every one of their remaining games - and Liverpool lose all of theirs - for Arsenal to win the league.

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But defeat to Palace would see Liverpool officially crowned as champions. Regardless, Arsenal still have plenty to play for before the end of the season.

Arteta’s side have reached the semi-finals and will take on French giants . The first-leg of that tie takes place at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday.

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