In a crucial match-up at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Arsenal displayed defensive prowess, securing a hard-fought 0-0 draw against reigning champions Manchester City. This stalemate allowed Liverpool to ascend to the top spot in the Premier League standings, intensifying the three-way title race.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, expressed mixed feelings about the outcome, stating, “No way can you be fully happy.” He emphasised the significance of their performance, asserting, “We have made a big step today.” Arteta highlighted Arsenal’s resilience in facing pressure, stating, “Coming to these big places… when there is a lot at stake… To respond to it is another step.”
Despite City’s dominance in possession, Arteta’s tactical setup frustrated Pep Guardiola’s side. Guardiola acknowledged Arsenal’s defensive prowess, noting, “They make a really good pressing. They are a master of that.” He acknowledged the challenge posed by Arsenal’s compact defence, stating, “They have really top players in defence, defending perfectly compact. Low block.”
The match witnessed a rare defensive stand by Arsenal at the Etihad, limiting City to just one shot on goal. Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard reflected on their defensive performance, stating, “We didn’t concede, so we are happy… We have to keep going like that.”
Although Gabriel Jesus had opportunities for Arsenal, including narrowly missing a cross from Bukayo Saka, both teams were unable to find the back of the net. The draw underscored Arsenal’s defensive improvement since their 4-1 defeat at the Etihad last season.
With the draw, Arsenal remains in contention for their first league title in two decades, currently sitting second in the table with 65 points, trailing Liverpool by two points. Arteta remains focused on the team’s progress, stating, “We will try our best to continue what we are doing… and we still have to improve a lot.”
