The Arsenal manager declined to comment further on Manchester City’s guilty verdict, noting that the club have appealed and the process remains unresolved.
“My position, and I think the club’s position, is not to make any further comments until this is fully resolved,” he said.
Arteta also refused to be drawn on whether the uncertainty could affect Arsenal’s title rivals, insisting his team’s attention was on Saturday’s match at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal are looking to respond after losing 3-0 to Brighton before the international break.
“The pain is still in the tummy,” Arteta said of that defeat. “Tomorrow we certainly have to play with that because it was a lesson for us.”
He said Arsenal had learned how quickly a strong team can fall below its standards, and expects his players to show a response against a Leeds side whose early-season performances have impressed him.
On team news, Declan Rice is being managed after a series of issues, with Arteta hopeful the midfielder will be available. Kai Havertz and Ezri Konsa will be assessed closer to kick-off, while Christos Tzolis is expected to miss several weeks with a muscle injury. Max Dowman, Ben White, Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera are available.
Arteta’s press conference also followed confirmation of a new contract that could keep him at Arsenal for more than a decade. He described the agreement as an honour for himself and his family, praising the way both sides handled the negotiations.
“What you have to do is enjoy the journey,” he said, reflecting on the seven years since he took charge. He added that the club’s ambition and shared identity had grown, but stressed that progress must be earned every day.
Asked about the prospect of building a dynasty, Arteta said the enthusiasm and energy around the club were even higher than before. He wants Arsenal to compete at the highest level for years to come, though he recognises that results depend on many factors.
He also praised the supporters’ connection with the team and said it was Arsenal’s responsibility to help ease their disappointment after the Brighton loss.
Arteta expects Leeds United to pose a serious challenge, saying their position is deserved and that Arsenal have prepared carefully. His message was clear: the City case is outside his control, but Arsenal’s performance is not.