Mikel Arteta has responded to comments from Rwanda president Paul Kagame and says Arsenal shouldn't settle for mediocrity.
The Gunners play Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on Sunday and will be looking to bounce back from their opening game of the Premier League season defeat to Brentford.
Kagame, who has previously criticised owner Stan Kroenke, was one of many vocal critics on social media after the game, tweeting that "Arsenal should not accept mediocrity".
Rwanda's government sponsor Arsenal and pay £10million a year to have 'Visit Rwanda' on the Gunners' shirt sleeves.
We just must NOT excuse or Accept mediocrity. A team has to be built with purpose to win win win. So that when we lose....it was not to be expected! I am sure we all know on whose shoulders the heaviest burden rests. I hope they know too or even accept it!!! End
— Paul Kagame (@PaulKagame) August 13, 2021
“Arsenal should not accept mediocrity,” said Arteta after being told about Kagame's post-match rant.
“I totally agree with that.”
Meanwhile, new signing Aaron Ramsdale has vowed to succeed Bernd Leno as the club's no.1 goalkeeper.
Ramsdale joined Arsenal in a £24million deal on Friday following lengthy talks with Sheffield United.
The 23-year-old has been brought in to compete with the German international, but it is hoped that he will eventually become Arsenal's long-term no.1.
“Competition is key and it’s also a great place to be,” said Ramsdale told the club’s official website.
“Bernd’s done a fantastic job over recent seasons and I’m here to push him all the way and take his shirt. That’s for me to achieve and for him to keep in front of me.
“Healthy competition is always going to be good for the group and hopefully I can just bring something different to the goalkeeping department but also to the team as well.
“We all have different qualities and hopefully we can all merge together and form a great team.”
