Mikel Arteta sends clear West Ham warning to Arsenal squad amid honest Julen Lopetegui admission

Mikel Arteta has warned that Arsenal are taking on a "dangerous" West Ham team this weekend as the Gunners hope to secure a valuable three points in the Premier League title race.

Arteta and his squad make the short trip across the capital as they face the Hammers in the Saturday evening kick-off. Arsenal know that a win would take them up to second, although they would still be six points behind league leaders Liverpool.

With Arne Slot's side facing fellow title challengers Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, it could be the perfect opportunity for Arsenal to close the gap on the Reds. Arteta believes the game on Saturday will not be easy, however.

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Speaking to reporters on Friday, Arteta said: "Various ways to create big problems. They are a really physical side. Very good in direct play, really good at attacking second balls.

"When they have to dominate the game through the ball or they have space they are a really dangerous team. Set-pieces and individual qualities that they have. The front players can create in any moment to cause you problems. They are really well coached."

West Ham are currently 14th in the league and have struggled under Julen Lopetegui since his summer arrival. They come into the game against the Gunners on the back of an impressive 2-0 win at Newcastle, though, so should be full of confidence.

Asked what relationship he has with Lopetegui, Arteta said: "I know him, I have huge admiration for what he’s done in the game. He’s from the same area as I am in Spain.

"Obviously it’s a team that are now on a high after their big win against Newcastle away. It’s always a really tough opponent so we know that."