ARSENAL host Nottingham Forest on Saturday as the Premier League returns this weekend, with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta relishing the prospect.

While Steve Cooper’s side ended Arsenal’s hopes of winning the title back in May, handing the trophy to Manchester City in the process, Arteta is full of anticipation for the new season, while underlining he still enjoys his job as manager of the North London giants.

“I love it,” the Basque-born 41-year-old told the Morning Star, adding: “Easier? I wouldn’t say it’s easier, especially with all the other managers [improving their squads] in the Premier League.”

However, Arteta is full of energy and has a burning desire to go one better during the forthcoming campaign, and steer Arsenal to the title for the first time since the Invincibles, 20 years ago. “I love my job,” said Arteta, adding: “I love what I do, I feel so grateful for what I do, and I want to continue improving this club.”

Record signing Declan Rice will make his Arsenal league debut, while Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber should feature, with Olexsandr Zinchenko and Jorginho also in contention. Gabriel Jesus is out as he recovers from knee surgery.

Forest may hand a debut to former Gunners goalkeeper Matt Turner, while Anthony Elanga could make his first Forest appearance after moving from Manchester United.