Arsenal grabbed a point late on, but Arteta’s choices have sparked debate following a 1-1 draw against Man City
The draw between Arsenal & Man City was a game of missed chances
Arsenal walked away from the clash with Man City relieved but not satisfied. An early strike from Erling Haaland had the home fans on edge for most of the night.
For long spells, Mikel Arteta’s side looked helpless going forward. The spark finally came, when substitutions were made in the second half. Eberechi Eze made a incredible lofted pass for Gabriel Martinelli to score the leveler. But, the bigger story was how Arsenal were lacking rhythm from the first half.
Arteta set up with a midfield stacked with defensive options, choosing Rice, Zubimendi and Merino together. That left Arsenal without much craft in the middle. That was unlike City’s trio who dictated the rhythm with Rodri, Foden and Reijnders.
The Gunners had just one real attempt in the first half. It came through Noni Madueke shooting straight at Donnarumma. For a side hoping to dethrone Liverpool at the top, that was simply not enough. Their approach kept things tight but also dulled their attacking bite.
Subs changed the story
What turned the tide were the changes Arteta eventually made. Eze, Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and young Ethan Nwaneri came off the bench and instantly lifted the tempo. Martinelli’s goal was a moment of brilliance.
But, Arsenal’s most dangerous football was seen once the creative stars came on. With Odegaard, Havertz and Gabriel Jesus missing, the squad was stretched. Although, the late attacking moves proved Arteta had the tools to be stronger from the start.
In the end, the point keeps Arsenal in the hunt, but they now sit five behind Liverpool instead of three. If the Arne Slot’s side keeps winning, Arsenal may regret not taking more risks such big games.
Author’s Opinion:
The fightback was admirable, but title challengers can’t afford to play it safe. Arsenal need to show courage early, not just in desperation time.
