Arteta Says Arsenal Style Criticism Comes From Small Minority
Mikel Arteta dismisses suggestions that Arsenal's playing style is boring, while David Raya points to the team's record of one defeat in 11 games this season.
Mikel Arteta has responded to questions about Arsenal's playing style by saying that the criticism comes only from a "very small minority" of observers, and that most people have enjoyed watching his side dominate matches this season.
Arsenal have won 10 of their 11 games this season but have not been scoring freely and have struggled to break down opponents who defend deep. On Sunday they needed an 80th-minute goal from substitute Noni Madueke to beat Nottingham Forest, taking their Premier League tally to 11 goals in seven matches. Last season Arsenal won the title by conceding the fewest goals in the league and scoring the most from set-pieces, but they have yet to register a set-piece goal in any competition this campaign.
Arteta argued the current narrative differs from last year, pointing to greater possession, more shots and goals shared among different players, alongside the absence of set-piece goals. He also acknowledged room for improvement against low-block defences, saying such opponents require a different approach and that his team could have done things better on Sunday.
Goalkeeper David Raya said the players are not irritated by the debate and suggested Arsenal's record speaks for itself. He noted the side have lost just once in 11 games this season and said the squad simply enjoy playing and winning matches.
Arsenal's next test comes in the Champions League against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, a fixture that will offer another measure of how the team's approach is faring.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
