Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has revealed he predicted Arsenal's surprising 3-2 defeat to the Red Devils at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, stating he could "smell" the upset coming before the match even began.
Keane's Pre-Match Intuition Proves Accurate
Speaking on Sky Sports after the dramatic Premier League encounter, Keane explained his foresight about the result. "United was a dangerous game for them today," the Irish pundit said. "I smelt it before the game."
The defeat represented just Arsenal's third loss of the entire campaign and their first at home all season, making the outcome particularly shocking for the league leaders.
How the Dramatic Unfolded at the Emirates
The match followed a rollercoaster pattern that ultimately favoured the visitors. Arsenal initially took the lead through a Lisandro Martinez own goal, only for Bryan Mbeumo to equalise for Manchester United.
Patrick Dorgu then completed what seemed to be the turnaround for Michael Carrick's side, putting them ahead. Mikel Merino appeared to have rescued a point for Mikel Arteta's Gunners with a late strike, but Matheus Cunha stole victory for United with just three minutes remaining.
Pressure Mounting on Premier League Leaders
Keane suggested that mounting pressure contributed significantly to Arsenal's unexpected collapse. "Pressure was on Arsenal today," he analysed. "They saw the other results; they have everything going for them in all competitions. That is pressure; they are feeling the pressure."
The former midfielder elaborated on how this mental burden has historically affected the North London club. "It is how they deal with it. That's what has cost them over the last few years when they have got themselves in good positions."
Concerns About Arsenal's Mentality
Keane expressed surprise at the apparent lack of confidence within the Arsenal squad despite their strong league position. "I can't believe they don't look like a confident team," he remarked. "Play the game, they are obviously playing the occasion. They have to get back to basics and embrace this challenge instead of being frightened of it."
He pointed to recent performances as warning signs. "The sign over the last few weeks. The Liverpool game, the Forest game and today. Losing that momentum."
Vieira Echoes Concerns About Mental Strength
Keane wasn't alone in questioning Arsenal's psychological resilience. Former Gunners legend Patrick Vieira also raised doubts about whether the current squad possesses the mental fortitude required to secure the Premier League title.
"They're still four points clear," Vieira acknowledged. "But there's still questions about the mental strength of the team. It's not just that they lost the game, it's the way they lost the game."
The Frenchman specifically highlighted underwhelming performances from key attackers. "Saka and Trossard didn't produce enough to worry United," he observed.
Leadership Void Identified
Vieira identified what he believes is a crucial missing element in the Arsenal setup. "They need a leader to lift the spirit of the team," he stated. "They need to understand when they are on the pitch they have to play with more energy and more risks. They have the quality. They didn't play with the freedom to express themselves."
This defeat comes at a critical juncture in Arsenal's season, with the team now facing questions about their championship credentials despite maintaining their position at the top of the table.
The Gunners will now turn their attention to Champions League commitments against Kairat in midweek before returning to Premier League action with a trip to Leeds, hoping to rediscover the form that had made them favourites for the title.
