Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has defended his team’s tactics in the recent 2-2 draw against Manchester City, stating that it was a normal approach given the circumstances. The Gunners had to play with 10 men after Leandro Trossard was sent off just before halftime. Despite accusations of time-wasting from City players like John Stones and Kyle Walker, Arteta insisted that his team had no choice but to defend deeply against City’s numerical advantage. He pointed out a moment in the first half when City also played with 10 men due to Rodri’s injury.
Arteta emphasized the need to adapt to the situation, mentioning a previous game where Arsenal suffered a heavy defeat when they were in a similar position. He acknowledged the challenges faced by his team and highlighted the importance of learning from such experiences. Several Arsenal players experienced cramps during the second half at the Etihad, leading to further criticism of time-wasting tactics. However, Arteta explained that some players would be unavailable for the upcoming EFL Cup tie against Bolton due to injuries.
When asked about the seriousness of the injuries sustained during the City game, Arteta remained cautious and stated that they would have to wait for further assessments. He addressed Trossard’s second yellow card, which resulted from kicking the ball away after a foul, and mentioned the need to remind his players about such disciplinary issues in the future. Arteta emphasized the importance of playing smart and avoiding unnecessary actions that could lead to unfavorable outcomes.
Despite facing criticism for their tactics, Arteta remained focused on the upcoming challenges and urged his team to stay disciplined and focused. He preferred to rely on facts rather than speculation and emphasized the need to assess the available players before making any judgments. The Arsenal manager’s measured response reflected his commitment to guiding the team through difficult situations and maintaining a competitive spirit in the face of adversity.
