Arsenal star Granit Xhaka has backed his side to do something "special" in the Premier League this season, sending a warning to Manchester City. It comes after the side got off to an ideal start to the campaign, winning eight of their opening nine so far to lead the league.
It has put the Gunners in the frame for the title picture, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool getting off to a slower start. Statement victories over Liverpool and North London rivals Tottenham has shown they can perform in the big matches, progressing from how they suffered last year.
Despite that change, manager Mikel Arteta has been coy on any talk of a championship contest, saying: "‘It’s a really hungry and humble team, believe me. It’s nothing that we have done yet, and there are still a lot of things to improve. That’s the direction we’re taking.
READ MORE: Drake backs Arsenal and Barcelona with huge £2.5m double bet amid concerns over team 'curse'
"We just started, and we’re really happy with where we are. The table says what it says, and we don’t look at that."
While the Spaniard has been less than willing to discuss their title chances this season, midfield star Xhaka is more so. The Swiss international has impressed under Arteta this campaign, playing in a more attacking role on the left of a midfield three, becoming a fans' favourite.
Discussing their chances of a title push, he told the Daily Mail: "It can be a special year if we keep going like we are working at the moment, we can get something big. Of course [Arsenal can win the title]. We have to believe in ourselves. If not, why are we playing?"
It remains to be seen if the Gunners can push for an unlikely title victory, but they have the lead in the league and can continue that momentum with yet more victories.
READ NEXT:
Every word Mikel Arteta said on Turner's distribution, Saliba concern and Arsenal desire
Why Granit Xhaka shouted at Matt Turner as Mikel Arteta's Arsenal prediction is proved right
Arsenal dealt major transfer blow as Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz signs new contract
Takehiro Tomiyasu’s Leeds selection and the Arsenal tactical question Mikel Arteta must answer
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
