Mourinho is adamant that the game against the Gunners was difficult despite a comfortable victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The hosts took the lead in the opening 13 minutes thanks to Heung-Min Son’s wonderful stunner outside the penalty area.
Mourinho’s men doubled their advantage on the cusp of halftime though Harry Kane.
Tottenham remained compact and kept Mikel Arteta’s men at bay despite Arsenal’s territorial advantage in the second half.
“It was a big game in every sense, not just because it was Tottenham-Arsenal. I want to give words, congratulations to Mikel Arteta because he gave us a very difficult game,” the Portuguese coach said after the game.
“Tactically they were very good, very organised. They gave us problems, problems we were able to resolve. They have a good tactical courage and incredible spirit. They are a good team and he is a good coach.
"We were reading the game and making the changes to win it because 2-0 was in our hands against a great and difficult opponents but my boys did well.
"I am very happy with the result and the performance but of course I want the team in the second half to play in a different way. In reality you don't always do what you want to do because your opponent forces you in a different direction.
"You are winning 2-0, why would you expose your defensive block if you don't have to? It was a very difficult game. I can imagine tomorrow the headlines will about them not being in a good position in the table but I believe with these players and Mikel it will be Arsenal v Tottenham again."
