Mikel Arteta responds to Arsenal "excuses" after latest collapse hands title to Man City
Mikel Arteta responded to Arsenal's recent collapse and their loss to Nottingham Forest, which handed the Premier League title to Manchester City, by stating that he wouldn't seek excuses for their downfall. Arsenal had occupied the top position for a significant portion of the season but faltered in the final weeks, allowing City to secure the championship before their own match against Chelsea. While Arsenal had exceeded expectations by challenging for a top-four finish, their inability to maintain their lead ultimately cost them the title.
Nottingham Forest, now ensured of their safety and a place in the top flight for the next season, scored the winning goal through Taiwo Awoniyi in the 19th minute, leaving Arsenal unable to mount a comeback. Arteta, who continued to praise his young team, emphasized the need to avoid excuses and take responsibility as a collective. He acknowledged Manchester City's achievement and admitted that it was a sad day for Arsenal. Reflecting on their performance, Arteta acknowledged their inability to break down Forest and took responsibility for the defeat.
Arteta recognized that in recent weeks, Arsenal had fallen short and conceded costly goals to their opponents. He expressed disappointment at not meeting their objective despite being at the top for a significant period. However, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of sports and noted that they must now face the reality of their situation. Arteta accepted the responsibility to lift the players and acknowledged the challenging week ahead.
In his third full season as manager, Arteta has overseen Arsenal's best campaign thus far. The team had a strong start, winning 16 out of their first 19 games and achieving notable victories over top clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal's impressive form in the initial stages of the season seemed to position them as title contenders, particularly with other teams faltering around them.
However, a dip in form towards the end of the season allowed Manchester City to reclaim the top spot. The defeat to Nottingham Forest on May 20 ultimately ended Arsenal's hopes of catching up. Throughout the season, Arsenal spent a remarkable 248 days at the top of the Premier League table, but their failure to convert their lead into the title sets a record in English top-flight football.
In conclusion, Mikel Arteta refused to make excuses for Arsenal's collapse and loss to Nottingham Forest, which led to Manchester City winning the Premier League title. While Arsenal exceeded expectations and enjoyed a significant period at the top of the table, their dip in form and inability to respond to challenges ultimately cost them the championship. Arteta took responsibility for their shortcomings and recognized the need to lift the team moving forward. Despite the disappointment, Arsenal's progress under Arteta is evident, and their impressive performances earlier in the season provide a foundation to build upon in future campaigns.
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