Rico Lewis believes Arsenal’s hurt at missing out on last season’s Premier League title will be a prime motivator for them when Manchester City visit on Sunday.
In April Arsenal had an eight-point lead, having played 29 games, one more than Pep Guardiola’s side, yet City overhauled them to win a third consecutive title by five points.
“I think they will definitely have been hurt after that,” the 18-year-old Lewis said. “They did so well last season and unfortunately for them they didn’t come away with the prize but it’s going to push them to be even better, which obviously pushes us.”
Victory would be a statement for the champions. “It’s a way we can put a stamp on the season and really make sure the rest of the league knows we’re aiming to do the same as last season,” Lewis said.
Lewis was a standout performer in Wednesday’s 3-1 Champions League victory over RB Leipzig, creating Phil Foden’s opener in an advanced midfield role, and Guardiola enthused about him afterwards. Rodri, who played at Leipzig, is suspended for the Arsenal game and Lewis was asked whether he hoped to start in the same position.
“I don’t have any hopes or anything,” he said. “I do my best and we’ll see what happens on Sunday but it’s all about what the manager chooses and decides is right. It’s just about patience for myself. There are so many world-class players in that dressing room so all I can do is my best and learn.
“The opportunities will come and when they do I’ve got to take them. I just have to stay patient. That’s my favourite position I think, even [more than] coming inside from full-back. I think playing a bit higher up, [rather] than defending as a two with Rodri, is my favourite.”
The win over Leipzig halted a run of two defeats – by Newcastle in the Carabao Cup and Wolves in the league.
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“We were a bit unlucky with the results and performances so we were a bit down but it’s never down for too long, there’s always another game and everyone is always up for it,” Lewis said.