Hull City manager Sergej Jakirović has described Arsenal as currently playing “the best football, together with Paris Saint-Germain” ahead of his team’s Premier League fixture against the league leaders on Saturday. The Croatian coach, speaking at a pre-match press conference, acknowledged the immense challenge of facing the defending champions at Emirates Stadium while also outlining his team’s tactical approach to the daunting encounter.
SCsport.raport.ba reported that Jakirović, whose Hull side sits 11th in the table with 11 points from nine matches, addressed the media on the eve of the game. He began with a moment of levity when asked about the difficulty of the task ahead. “It’s a very easy game for us. What’s so hard about it?” he quipped, drawing laughter from the reporters present.
He quickly shifted to a more serious tone, expressing pride in his club and offering a frank assessment of the opposition. “Putting the joke aside, I am very proud of the club. We know how difficult it is to play in the Premier League and for that I want to thank all the fans. Arsenal is currently playing the best football, together with Paris Saint-Germain,” Jakirović stated.
Hull’s Tactical Preparation for Arsenal
Jakirović revealed that his coaching staff has spent the week developing multiple tactical strategies to counter Arsenal’s style of play. “We will see. This week we tried something, plan A, plan B, and plan C, but we will see. We have to play aggressively and with initiative because Arsenal has a very high quality,” he explained. The manager emphasized that his team’s aggressive approach must extend to both duels in midfield and closing down spaces, noting a specific tactical challenge Arsenal presents.
“The key is their ability to find free space and dictate the rhythm of the game,” Jakirović commented. He believes Arsenal, along with Manchester City, operates on a different level from most other teams in the league. “I think they are currently, alongside Manchester City, on a second level in this league. We will try to create problems for them, but they will control the game. A lot depends on us. We have to be aggressive in duels and close down space because when you watch them, you see they create space for themselves.”
🗣️ Sergej Jakirović on Arsenal: “They are playing really good football. They are very, very strong, they control everything. They will not allow us a lot.” 🎥 @SkySportsPL pic.twitter.com/B9sgRzjZFA
Hull's Winless Run Extends to Seven Matches
The Hull City team enters this match on the back of a 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town in their last outing. Jakirović changed his team’s system during that game, which led to a comeback and a 2-1 lead, though his squad was unable to hold on and concede a late equalizer. This result extended Hull’s winless run in the league to seven matches, a dip in form after a strong start to the season.
Following their opening victories against Manchester United and Coventry City, Hull has struggled to find consistent results. Despite the current downturn, the team’s position of 11th in the Premier League table with 11 points represents a foundation, placing them in the table.
Arsenal’s Dominant Start to the Season
In stark contrast to Hull’s recent struggles, Arsenal has been in formidable form. The Gunners top the Premier League table with 24 points from nine games, having secured eight victories and suffering just one defeat. This record comes on the heels of their triumph in last season’s title race, confirming their ambitions in the new campaign.
Jakirović’s assessment of Arsenal’s quality is reflected in their on-field performance. The London club’s play under manager Mikel Arteta has been a focus. Their ability to dominate and create scoring chances has set them apart from their rivals this season.
Scheduled Premier League Fixture Details
The match between Hull City and Arsenal is scheduled for Saturday, with a kickoff time of 16:00 local time at Emirates Stadium in London. The fixture represents a significant challenge for Hull City, who will be looking to end their winless streak against one of the form teams in Europe.
Jakirović’s acknowledgment of Arsenal’s quality combined with his team’s own need for points creates a compelling narrative for the match.
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