Mikel Arteta reveals 'very, very important' quality Arsenal have gained under his leadership as Gunners prepare for blockbuster Premier League meeting with Pep Guardiola's Man City

The Basque coach claimed that the current crop of Gunners stars have a lot of confidence which is reflected in their body language on the pitch. Arteta's side are gearing up to face reigning champions Manchester City in an important Premier League fixture on Sunday.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the manager said, "That is something I think they have right now. That body language, in my opinion, is very, very important. It is something the players have to feel. And to be able to feel it, they have to feel that confidence, they have to feel emotionally prepared as well to make that step. They are growing.

"You want to maintain all the qualities we had in the past and keep improving. Don't lose them. Add, and add, and add, without losing anything. That is the aim of the club and every coach, to be better in every department. That is what this league requires."

He added, "That is a huge quality of theirs but as well their intelligence, their character, the passion they have for the game and how competitive they are. You have to add a lot of elements. One specific element is not enough at this level to make a huge impact on the team. But those two have brought a lot of qualities.

"To win big trophies, you need game-winners. You need world-class players who can win you the game at any moment, players who can open the door when it is closed. We are developing those players because they are necessary for the big moments."

The north London side are currently sitting at the top of the table - tied on points with Liverpool and have a point more than the Cityzens. Arteta's side have had the upper hand in the last two games between the clubs. They won the Community Shield after coming back from behind, while in the Premier League, they edged out Pep Guardiola's men 1-0 at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners will aim to extend their lead at the top of the table by beating Guardiola's men at Etihad. After facing City, their next league encounter will be against Luton Town on Wednesday.