Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed that the Gunners deserved to lose against Newcastle United in Saturday.
The Magpies overcame the Londoners 1-0 in a fierce encounter at St. James’ Park with Alexander Isak’s 12th minute effort proving as difference.
Speaking to the media after the game, the tactician claims there was nothing to complain about though remains hopeful about his team’s chances of winning the league.
“We started the game really well. I think we were on top of it, we looked sharp, we looked alive and then in one action, direct play, second ball which they are really good at,” Arteta said.
“They put the ball in behind with an unbelievable cross and finish. After that, momentum changes, the energy shifts, they know how they want to play and it’s clear and then you get two options in that kind of game.
“We weren’t good enough and didn’t have enough answers to get out of that, especially creating the threat that we needed, so at the end, you are reliant on two or three big chances that we had with Mikel, two with Declan and one with Gabi.
“Not enough threat to change the game in any moment and win it. That’s the frustrating part, but credit to them as well for what they did.”
He continued: “I understand that the last eight, nine, 10 games last year we didn’t talk about it, and we’re not going to talk about it now.
“It’s about how we react. We’re not going to find the right answers or words right now to describe, but how we feel, we certainly have to put it out on that field on Wednesday night against Inter.”
Next up for Arsenal is a Champions League game against Serie A giants Inter Milan on Wednesday.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
