Marco Silva spoke about the upcoming fixture for Fulham against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
The Cottagers could land a decisive blow to the aspirations of an Premier League title for the Gunners, while keeping alive their dreams of qualification for continental competition. They have never lost by more than one goal in this contest since their promotion back to the top tier in 2022, so supporters should expect a nervy encounter, and Fulham are eager to exploit that possible dynamic.
‘They are very difficult to play against’
Despite spending £180 million on three attackers in the summer transfer window, Arsenal remain a stability-first side under Mikel Arteta, and Silva is aware that squad depth could make the difference for the home side this weekend.
“Let’s hope we can use [any tension in the Emirates Stadium.] That depends on us, it depends on them, and it depends on many things. Whether the environment is tense or not depends on how we play and whether we are good enough to make it happen. Simple as that.”
“Arsenal are a top side, a side that are title contenders, that play to win all of their games, but are also the most solid team in the league. They are a team, that even if they are not playing at their best level, they have other ways to punish the opposition. They are very difficult to play against.”
Arteta’s options up front
“When at their best level, they are a top side. Compact, solid, they work hard off the ball, starting from the striker. They are a team that don’t give up a lot of space to the opposition.”
“You try to analyse them, and against Atletico Madrid, the frontline was Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli. But it could be Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Leandro Trossard. It’s clear for us, that their squad depth is better than seasons before, so they can totally change their frontline. It speaks about themselves, and the quality and depth that they have.”
“We also enjoy this type of situation, we just have to look at ourselves and be competitive to fight for the three points. Three points to fight for – and we will fight.”
The reigning Arteta side arrives at this fixture coming off Champions League commitments, and Silva will hope any post-European fatigue plays into Fulham’s favour.
