Mikel Arteta admitted Arsenal need to be more “ruthless” after a 2-1 defeat to Manchester City gave Pep Guardiola’s side the upper hand in the Premier League title race. Erling Haaland’s second-half strike proved decisive at the Etihad, with the Gunners hitting the woodwork three times in the second half through Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Magalhaes and Kai Havertz.
“I don’t think there was any difference between the two teams,” Arteta said. “There is an element of luck, whether the ball goes in or not. We were close, not close enough.” The defeat leaves Arsenal three points clear of City, but Guardiola’s side have a game in hand against Burnley on Wednesday, which would put them top with five matches remaining.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard insisted the race is “all to play for”, while Declan Rice was seen shouting “It’s not done” at full-time. The result was marred by a controversial moment when Gabriel pushed his head towards Haaland, but escaped a red card after a VAR check deemed it not excessively aggressive. Haaland described their physical battle as “wrestling”, adding: “Sometimes my missus is not so happy – it looks a bit wrong.”
City may have a fresh injury concern as Rodri limped off late on with a groin problem. The Ballon d’Or winner will be assessed, with Guardiola awaiting the extent of the damage. The victory was City’s fourth straight in all competitions as they close in on a fifth title in six seasons.
