Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta did not criticize his players after their surprise 1-0 loss to Everton on Saturday. Despite the defeat, Arteta expressed his pride in his team, pointing out that he loves them even more now despite the setback.
Arsenal suffered a setback in their Premier League title aspirations as they were defeated by a resilient Everton side at Goodison Park. The Toffees, who have been struggling in the league this season, earned their first win in 105 days thanks to James Tarkowski’s 60th minute header.
The Gunners dominated the possession with 70% but lacked the clinical edge in front of goal as they failed to convert several opportunities to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Despite the loss, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refused to criticize his players and showed his support for them. He acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in the final third but remained proud of their efforts. In his post-match interview with BT Sport, Arteta stated: “Today I love them much better than the week before or a month ago. It is easy to be next to someone when they are winning well. I am still so proud of all of these players, they deserve it.”
Arteta also pointed out that Everton’s physicality and height were a challenge for Arsenal, but emphasized the need for his side to control the game better in future matches.
“We had loads of the ball but we lacked that purpose and quality in the final third, we generated many chances. But then we conceded and they slowed the game down and we struggled. They do this to every team that is their strength with the height, the physicality is their strength, if you want to control the game against them you have to control this.”
The Gunners will now look to bounce back when they host Brentford at the Emirates Stadium, hoping for a favorable result from the Tottenham vs Manchester City match.