Rio Ferdinand Slams Arteta Tactics After Arsenal’s 3–2 Loss to Man United

Rio Ferdinand criticises Mikel Arteta cautious approach and questions Bukayo Saka’s form after Arsenal’s shock home defeat.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has launched a strong critique of Mikel Arteta tactics following Arsenal’s damaging 3–2 home defeat to United on January 25, 2026.

Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, Ferdinand argued that Arsenal’s overly cautious approach could cost them the Premier League title. The debate around Rio Ferdinand Arteta tactics has intensified as the Gunners’ lead at the top of the table was cut to four points.

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Arsenal began the match brightly and took the lead when Lisandro Martinez turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Jurrien Timber.

Manchester United responded before half-time after a costly error from Martin Zubimendi, allowing Bryan Mbeumo to round David Raya and equalise.

The visitors took control early in the second half through Patrick Dorgu, whose powerful strike shifted the momentum. Arsenal hit back when Mikel Merino forced the ball home from close range, but the decisive blow arrived late on.

Substitute Matheus Cunha curled a stunning long-range effort beyond Raya to secure a 3–2 win, lifting United into the top four and handing Arsenal their first home defeat of the season.

Ferdinand: Arteta Is “Playing With the Handbrake On”

Ferdinand’s sharpest criticism was aimed at Arteta’s tactical mindset. He accused the Arsenal boss of setting his team up with excessive caution and a lack of attacking freedom.

“Arteta is cautious. Everything’s a jab. I haven’t seen the right-hand haymaker,” Ferdinand said. “They’re playing with the handbrake on.”

Ferdinand warned that Arsenal’s biggest threat in the title race may be internal rather than external, urging the team to show greater confidence and authority in decisive moments.

Bukayo Saka Criticised for Drop in Impact

Ferdinand also questioned Bukayo Saka’s form, describing the winger as a “shadow of his former self” in recent matches.

He highlighted a lack of runs in behind and a reduced connection with Martin Ødegaard, suggesting Arsenal’s structured build-up has made their attack predictable.

“He’s the one they always go to, but I don’t see him running onto things,” Ferdinand said.

Saka struggled to influence the contest against United, reinforcing concerns about Arsenal’s attacking edge in high-pressure games.

Arteta admitted after the match that Arsenal were “not at their best” but stressed the importance of responding quickly with a long season still ahead.

United’s win has added fresh tension to the title race, while Ferdinand’s comments have fuelled debate over whether Arsenal can loosen the reins without losing control.

If the Gunners are to stay ahead of rivals like Manchester City and Liverpool, Arteta may need to balance structure with aggression — and finally take the handbrake off.

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