Arsene Wenger knows Arsenal will be judged on how they perform against Manchester City in a blockbuster Sunday in the English Premier League, where Manchester United are also scheduled to face Liverpool at Anfield.
Arsenal have had a good start to the season, with the Gunners especially looking solid defensively, having conceded just a single goal in four games. New signings Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla have integrated well into the squad, with the Gunners playing as a well-drilled unit for the first time in a few years.
The Gunners face their toughest test yet when they visit Manchester City at the fortress that is the Etihad Stadium, and Wenger is well aware of the knives that will be brought out, if Arsenal fail to perform against the English Premier League champions.
"It's inevitable that opinions will fly around on Sunday night," he told the club's official website. "That is normal and accepted, you have to deal with that.
"So let's make sure that the opinions are in our favor."
All signs point to Arsenal finally competing for top honors this season, with the team also receiving a huge boost by the return of midfielder Jack Wilshere to full training. Arsenal's midfield has looked as good as any in a few years, with Mikel Arteta and Abou Diaby controlling things in the middle, allowing the likes of Cazorla and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the freedom to create. Substitutes Aaron Ramsey and Francis Coquelin have also done the jobs when needed.
"(Only) four games have been played and I believe some of teams are coming back into the race," the Frenchman said. "The Premier League is very difficult now, it's very unpredictable.
"Let's focus on us, our consistency and take care of our attitude. I think what's been remarkable up until now is our attitude."
More than the attitude, it's been the discipline shown by the entire team that has been a stand out for the Gunners this season. Discipline, both going forward and more importantly in tracking back and chipping in with the defensive duties by the forwards; as well as the discipline seen by the back-four, which seems much more organized. Steve Bould will have to take a lot of the credit for finally bringing in a little backbone to the side.
That defensive aptitude will no doubt be put to the firmest test, and how Arsenal come out of the game will probably define how their season will transpire.
"We know it's a big test. We go there in a very good, positive mind," Wenger said. "We have a good opportunity to show how good we are and how strong we are. So let's take it.
"At the moment it's very open in the league. We have many good teams and it's a bit early, because we're only four games in.
"After 10 to 15 games you have a better idea of the strengths in the league. So let's get in a good position so that after 10 games we have a serious chance (of winning the title)."
Wenger is well aware of teams targeting the defending champions, with one of his biggest regrets being not able to defend the English Premier League title he has won three times. "It changes a bit because, first of all, you have done it," he said. "Sometimes to do it again is harder. Everybody wants to beat you. The focus needs to be there."
Wenger believes this Arsenal side are a stronger version of the team that narrowly lost 1-0 in the corresponding fixture last season. "I would be tempted to say yes that we are better now," he added. "Last year we were in a different position when we went up there, but it was a very close game.
"It is always interesting to go into these big games because you have the championship and then you have the big games. It's always interesting to watch your team.
"I am confident because we have quality, experience and a huge desire to do well together. That has a big impact in big games."
