Mikel Arteta's decision to leave several key attackers on the bench may have cost Arsenal a win against Manchester City, as the Gunners had to settle for a 1-1 draw at the Emirates. Gabriel Martinelli's late equaliser salvaged a point, but the result left Arteta 'very disappointed'.
Arteta started the match with a cautious lineup, benching in-form players like Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino. The approach backfired as Arsenal struggled to create chances, while Erling Haaland put City ahead with a clinical finish. Arteta later admitted he had hoped to use 'positive momentum' from recent performances, but the team lacked spark.
Insiders suggest Arteta overthought the game, aiming to exploit City's tiredness after the hour mark. However, the plan unravelled as City defended deep, with Josko Gvardiol and Nico O'Reilly making crucial blocks. City had just 32.8% possession, the lowest of Pep Guardiola's career, as they 'parked the bus'.
The draw leaves Arsenal top of the league, but questions remain over Arteta's team selection. With Liverpool scoring late winners this season, Arsenal's reliance on a late equaliser may prove costly in the long run.
