Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta openly admitted that his side’s performance in their 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United was not up to the mark. Speaking after the match at St James’ Park, Arteta acknowledged that his team was “dragged” into Newcastle’s game plan and failed to impose their own style.
The match saw Newcastle take the lead through Alexander Isak’s header in the 14th minute, and Arsenal struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the game. Arteta highlighted that his team lacked purpose and threat, especially in transition, and gave away too many free-kicks, which disrupted their rhythm.
“We started the game really well, we were on top of it, looked sharp, then one action with an unbelievable cross and finish and the momentum changes,” Arteta said. “You know the game they want to play, it’s clear. You can too often get dragged into that type of game and we weren’t good enough.”
Arteta’s comments came amidst growing frustration among Arsenal fans, who have seen their team drop points in recent matches. The Gunners are now seven points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool and will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, including a crucial Champions League clash against Inter Milan.
Despite the defeat, Arteta remained optimistic about his team’s ability to bounce back. “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,” he added.
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