Mikel Arteta says he is embracing the shift in dynamic that comes with Arsenal entering the new Premier League season as the reigning champions — and the team every rival is targeting.

The Arsenal manager described the change in mentality required when moving from chasing the title to defending it, welcoming the added pressure that comes with being "the hunted" rather than the hunter.

Arteta's comments reflect a significant moment in Arsenal's recent history. After years of building under his guidance, the club now carries the weight of expectation that only a defending champion shoulders — a challenge the Spaniard appears determined to meet head-on.