Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta: Loss to Bournemouth a ‘significant setback’
Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment regarding Arsenal’s “strange” display in their 2-1 loss to Bournemouth on Saturday, describing the outcome as a “big punch in the face.”
Arsenal missed the opportunity to extend their lead over Manchester City to 12 points at the Emirates Stadium, leaving the path open for Pep Guardiola’s team to reduce the deficit to six points against Chelsea on Sunday.
“It’s incredibly disappointing. It’s a big punch in the face,” Arteta stated on TNT Sports. “Now it’s about how we respond.”
“Credit to them for their performance; they haven’t lost in 11 matches for a reason.”
“However, we made a number of unusual decisions today.”
Viktor GyΓΆkeres equalized after Junior Kroupi’s initial goal, but Alex Scott netted the decisive goal as Arteta’s team pressed forward. Despite multiple substitutions, Arsenal was unable to penetrate the visitors’ defense afterward.
“We were significantly below the level we expect, that’s for certain,” Arteta remarked. “But once again, I don’t wish to criticize any players, especially in this context.”
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