Gary Neville Criticizes Arsenal Mentality in Liverpool Defeat at Anfield

Gary Neville Arsenal mentality criticism follows 1–0 loss at Anfield. Pundit questions Gunners’ mindset in big away matches.

Gary Neville reignited Arsenal mentality concerns after watching the Gunners fall 1–0 to Liverpool at Anfield. The Sky Sports pundit questioned whether Mikel Arteta’s side truly believes it can win big away games—a sharp critique that fuels ongoing debate about Arsenal’s mindset in high-pressure fixtures.

Speaking during Sky Sports commentary, Neville didn’t hold back. He praised Liverpool’s confidence and contrasted it with Arsenal’s cautious approach:

“Liverpool have got what Arteta and Arsenal haven’t right now—that edge, that something, that mentality to go and win big matches at big away grounds,” Neville said.

He added that Arsenal seemed more focused on avoiding defeat than chasing victory, suggesting that this mindset is costing them in title-defining moments.

The match was decided by a stunning 83rd-minute free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai, which flew past David Raya and sealed the win for Arne Slot’s side. Despite controlling large parts of the game, Arsenal failed to register more than one shot on target, highlighting their lack of cutting edge in the final third.

Pundits Echo Neville’s Concerns

Jamie Carragher and Roy Keane joined Neville in criticizing Arsenal’s approach. Carragher pointed out that Arsenal’s problem isn’t finishing—it’s creating. He noted that despite summer signings like Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, and Viktor Gyokeres, the team still struggles to generate chances in open play.

Keane described Arsenal’s attacking play as “robotic,” urging the team to show more spontaneity and urgency when chasing goals.

After the match, Mikel Arteta acknowledged the challenge of winning at Anfield and admitted his team needs to find a way to win big games:

“It was going to be decided by an individual error or a moment of magic. We have to find a way to win these matches,” Arteta told Sky Sports.

The defeat marks Arsenal’s first of the season and raises fresh questions about their ability to compete with top-tier rivals. With tougher fixtures ahead and key players still recovering, Arteta must address both tactical execution and mental resilience.

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