With each season that passes by, Mikel Arteta continues to look like the best man for the Arsenal job, thanks to the great progress he’s made since becoming the club’s permanent manager in 2019 following the sacking of a more experienced Unai Emery, who has since returned to the Premier League to coach Aston Villa.
Arsenal came close to winning the league last year and has started this season strongly as well, picking up 40 points from 20 games this season. However, his team suffered a setback yesterday after being knocked out of the FA Cup by Liverpool, with Arteta pointing out his team’s mental strength after the match.
Mikel Arteta expresses concerns over Arsenal’s mental block
Arsenal narrowly missed out on the Premier League last season, and most people blamed it on their mental strength, with many claiming they lacked winners in the team that could have pushed them through to the finish line. The Gunners have started this season in a great position too, sitting five points behind Liverpool, who are top of the table.
Liverpool ended Arsenal’s hopes of winning the FA Cup this season as Jurgen Klopp’s men secured a 2-0 victory despite Arsenal’s dominance in the game. Mikel Arteta again has referenced his team’s mental block, claiming they now have to reset if they want to win any trophy this season.
“I think we need to reset. This break is good. It comes at a good time,” the Arsenal manager said.
“We’re going to see how I feel about them in difficult moments. Hopefully, I can see that from other people too. When things are going well, they jump on the train. Now things are difficult, let’s see where they stand,” he added.
Arteta, who escaped the FA’s punishment over his referee remarks, will lead Arsenal in the home game against Crystal Palace in less than two weeks.
Arsenal eliminated from FA Cup following loss to Liverpool
Arsenal’s FA Cup journey ended effectively yesterday after two late goals confirmed their elimination from this season’s FA Cup. Mikel Arteta’s men started the game very brightly and had a few good chances to show for it, including Martin Odegaard’s shot against the crossbar and Reis Nelson’s one-on-one opportunity.
The Gunners controlled the proceedings, and Liverpool grew into the game as time went on. Klopp’s men also came close to scoring in the first half, but Aaron Ramsdale was up for all the shots that came his way.
Arsenal thought they were heading for a replay at Anfield until Jakub Kiwior scored an own goal in the 80th minute. Arsenal’s late push wasn’t enough, as Luis Diaz’s goal in the 95th minute secured Liverpool’s qualification into the next round.
Can Arsenal and Mikel Arteta win any trophies this season?
