Arteta Encouraged by Team Response After Arsenal's Defeat to Manchester United
Mikel Arteta has expressed optimism following a crucial team meeting in the aftermath of Arsenal's disappointing 3-2 loss to Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The defeat dealt a significant blow to the Gunners' Premier League title aspirations, with the team managing just two points from their last three league matches.
Arteta's Call for Calm and Conviction
The Arsenal manager revealed he convened his players on Monday to "bring down the temperature" and refocus their energies. Arteta described the session as "so encouraging and beautiful," emphasising the importance of maintaining perspective during a challenging period.
"We took a moment to bring the temperature down, to pause, to reflect and ask two questions," Arteta explained. "One was: 'How do we feel? And how do I feel myself?'. And then: 'How do we want to live the next four months?'."
Plea to Anxious Arsenal Supporters
Arteta made a direct appeal to Arsenal's fanbase, urging them to embrace the excitement of the title race despite recent setbacks. "I'm just hoping that everybody that is related to this club, especially our supporters, jump on that boat because this is the way that we're going to live the next four months," he stated.
The Spanish manager emphasised that his team has "earned the right to be in a great position in four competitions" and pledged they would approach the remainder of the season with enjoyment, courage, and conviction.
Regular Reflection Sessions
Arteta clarified that such meetings are a regular part of his management approach, occurring every three to four weeks. "It's really important to understand the reality versus the perspective," he noted. "Sometimes you have to look with the microscope and then you have to put the telescope in. You have to be able to see everything with clarity."
During the latest gathering, Arteta reinforced his belief in the squad, telling players "how good they are, and how grateful we are to share every single day with them."
Historical Context and Current Position
Despite the recent stumble, Arsenal remain four points clear at the Premier League summit. The club's pursuit of their first league title in 22 years continues, having finished as runners-up for the past three consecutive seasons.
When questioned about whether this historical context might be affecting supporters' nerves, Arteta acknowledged the possibility but stressed the importance of focusing on the present. "What happened in the past has to be very powerful to learn for the future," he remarked.
Immediate Challenges Ahead
Arsenal face a quick turnaround with a Champions League home fixture against Kairat on Wednesday, where they aim to maintain their perfect European record this season. The team also remains in contention for both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.
However, they will be without several key players for the European encounter. Declan Rice and Mikel Merino are suspended, while injured defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba also miss out.
Arteta concluded with a determined message: "We're going to give absolutely everything" in pursuit of their ambitions across multiple competitions.
