LONDON — Mikel Arteta expressed concern that Arsenal’s “terrible defensive tendencies” nearly led to them losing their match against Wolves.
Arsenal established a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League standings, though this was achieved following a stressful and anxious display at Emirates Stadium when playing against the league’s weakest side.
Wolves’ custodian, Sam Johnstone, unintentionally diverted Bukayo Saka’s corner kick in the 70th minute into his own goal, subsequently, Arsenal retreated defensively to protect their advantage, only for replacement Tolu Arokodare to level the score in the 90th minute.
Arsenal secured a vital victory when Yerson Mosquera headed Saka’s cross from the 94th minute into his own goal, yet Arteta highlighted the relinquishment of space and ball control in the closing stages that nearly jeopardized their championship aspirations.
“[The atmosphere among the players] is one of relief, however, there’s a distinct recognition that the winning difference ought to have been more substantial,” Arteta informed journalists.
“Given our lack of accuracy in the first half, despite the numerous opportunities created within the opponent’s penalty area where we failed to connect with our own players, we absolutely needed to perform better in the subsequent half.
“Indeed, we created additional scoring opportunities, but then we endured a two- or three-minute spell, dropping back, completely inactive, exhibiting dreadful defensive patterns far below the standard expected, especially against an opponent who had not registered a single attempt on goal.
“The very first occasion they managed to create a chance, they converted it into a goal, and such is the nature of the Premier League. Luckily, we feel fortunate to have scored the decisive goal to secure the victory, but our performance in this regard unquestionably demands betterment.”
Ben White exited the game after just 31 minutes due to a hamstring issue, and Arteta indicated that the defensive player is likely facing a period of absence from play.
This season marked the first time in more than a year that White began his fourth successive game.
“He hadn’t accumulated significant playing time due to his prior knee ailment, and then, just as he began to build momentum, he was compelled to play extensively since we lacked alternative options,” Arteta stated.
“We even had to take a chance with Willy [William Saliba] today, as it was likely not the most prudent decision to have him play a full 90 minutes, risking yet another injury, but we currently have no other players available. Therefore, this situation certainly represents unfortunate news [for Ben].”
