Zinchenko insists that Arsenal are in a position to overtake Manchester City

Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko says the Gunners are still aiming to topple Premier League champions Manchester City next season.

Mikel Arteta's side put City on the brink of the title race last season but fell short in their bid to win the league for the first time since 2004.

However, the North London outfit are gearing up for a comeback and they have less than a month to complete their preparations for the new campaign before it kicks off again.

Zinchenko was a regular starter for Arsenal in 2023-24, but may now face competition from incoming Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.

However, the Ukraine international says it is still a matter of working together as a team to continue their title challenges in the past two years.

Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “I don't think we need to cheat someone like City.

“Of course at the moment they are probably the best team in the world. If you look at the statistics and the titles they have won in the last few years, it is amazing.

Oleksandr Zinchenko insists Arsenal “don't need to copy someone like Man City”

Where will the Gunners sit in the title race this season…? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/hIaKRS4ZrT

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“You must always look for the best and try but not be like them, we must be above them. Mikel and his staff are doing an amazing job here.

“I have known him for a while since I was in City. I knew you would be an amazing manager. Group development inside, you can see the progress.

“I know that people outside the team see it, but also inside. Arsenal are on the right track. I really hope and believe that the Arsenal closer can achieve many good things. “

The 27-year-old was a key part of City's success during his time at the club but like his manager Arteta, he moved to the capital.

He played 35 games in all competitions last season and admitted that the Premier League is the toughest and most demanding in the world.

He went on to say: “The way City have done in the last two years, it shows how much the league is needed and where the level is. I thought the Premier League was the toughest in the world.

“Every opponent can beat the other and every game is like a final here.

“These are not just words, they are true. Even at the beginning of the season, you can lose some games and lose points and think you will come back.

“It shows how much this league is needed. You must be at 100 or higher in every single game. “