Goalkeeper David Raya stated that Arsenal possesses "extra confidence" after clinching the Premier League title last season, a victory that has instilled a belief that they "can beat anybody." The team's recent form includes three consecutive league victories, most recently a 2-1 win against Chelsea on Sunday.
Raya attributed the team's elevated confidence to their Premier League triumph and a strong start to the current season, including a Community Shield win against Manchester City. "Of course, winning the league after that many years and after those years that you are so close, it gives you that relief and it gives you that extra confidence," Raya said. "Coming from the three games, especially the Community Shield win against (Manchester) City, the way we played, that gives you extra motivation and extra confidence to play the way we want to play."
He added that the title win has brought happiness to the fans and the club, and the team is focused on maintaining their current level of play. "We know we can beat anybody in this league. Let's just focus on the moment and be in the present. And I just want more from me."
Midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, a summer signing, echoed the sentiment of improvement, suggesting that Arsenal is already playing better than in the previous season and that this is "just the beginning." Guimaraes, who was available from the bench for the Chelsea match after a minor knock, expressed satisfaction with his integration into the team.
"They're strong physically, strong in defence, strong in attack. It seems that this season they're playing better than last season. I think that's the goal, to improve every year," Guimaraes stated. He also noted that manager Mikel Arteta emphasizes continuous improvement. "We can see that our team is playing very well. It's just the beginning, there's a lot to come but so far, congratulations to everyone."
Guimaraes is expected to be in contention for Arsenal's opening Champions League fixture against Napoli on Wednesday.