Arteta urges Arsenal to stay focused ahead of their crucial clash with West Ham.

Mikel Arteta said Arsenal need to shift their focus to Sunday’s “huge” Premier League clash against West Ham, following the emotional high of securing a spot in the Champions League final.

The Gunners are on the brink of their first English title in 22 years, needing victories in their final three league matches. Their toughest challenge looks to be an away trip to relegation-threatened West Ham. After that, Arteta’s side will host already-relegated Burnley before taking on Crystal Palace, just days ahead of the Eagles’ Conference League final.

Arsenal secured a spot in the Champions League final for only the second time in their history after defeating Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, but Arteta emphasized there’s little time to dwell on the achievement before turning attention to Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.

“Stay present, live in the moment, prepare and show the same level of energy, hunger and desire we have shown all season, or more,” said the Arsenal boss, referring to his message to his players.

“We are closer and closer and everything we do is going to matter.”

The Gunners are five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table but have played one game more than Pep Guardiola’s men.

The result at the London Stadium could also have huge ramifications for Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham.

Spurs are just one point above 18-place West Ham in the battle to avoid the drop.

“Understanding the conditions of the game for both clubs, it’s huge, obviously,” said Arteta. “We know the importance of it, we know what we want and what we have to do to win the game.”

The Spaniard said Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber remain out and are facing a race against time to feature in the Champions League final on May 30.

“There’s a fair bit to do,” he said. “Everything has to be so smooth and quick if they want the chance to play any minutes.”