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What's the story?
Arsenal manager Unai Emery has jokingly claimed that he would rather not want his team to play against Liverpool. However, the Spaniard also insisted that his side will face the European champions with a positive approach.
In case you didn't know...
Liverpool and Arsenal are set to lock horns against each other in the Premier League at Anfield, on Saturday.
Arsenal have struggled against the Reds in the last few seasons, with their last league win against the Merseyside-based club coming way back in April 2015. They were thrashed 5-1 by Jurgen Klopp's troops at Anfield last time out, while in the reverse fixture, they managed to hold Liverpool to a 1-1 draw at home.
Nevertheless, after having spent heavily in the summer transfer window, Arsenal have looked better in all departments in their opening two league fixtures this season. They are currently level on points with Liverpool at the top of the ladder.
The heart of the matter
Speaking to journalists, Unai Emery said:
"For us, we don't ever want to play against Liverpool – but it's really a challenge, a good test."
The Spaniard also explained his team's target for the current season.
"Really our target is to reduce the distance (between us) and Manchester City and Liverpool last season, and when we go to play against them it's a big moment to show how (much stronger) we can be."
"Last week you asked me if we are better now than last year – I don't know. It's the same if you ask if we are going to be stronger with those three players up front."
"We need all the players to show how we are going to make a big difference to last year with the points."
He also revealed that his team maintain a good atmosphere in the dressing room.
"But I really think we have the spirit in the dressing room and I am very happy because I am seeing the team involved in this process now."
"We are going there (to Anfield) with six points from two games. Next week is a very good match for every supporter of Arsenal."
What's next?
Unai Emery will be looking forward to registering his first league victory against Liverpool when both teams will meet at Anfield on August 24.
