Mikel Arteta has explained why Arsenal struggled in their narrow 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United, lamenting his side’s inability to create decisive goalscoring opportunities.
In a tight contest at St James’ Park, Alexander Isak broke the deadlock with a superb header, which proved enough for the Magpies to secure all three points.
Reflecting on the game, Arteta noted that Arsenal’s attacks lacked the final quality needed to trouble Nick Pope in Newcastle’s goal.
“We are obviously very frustrated and disappointed with the result,” Arteta said post-match. “I think we started the game really well, we were on top of it, and then in one action, we found ourselves 1-0 down after a brilliant cross and finish.”
Arteta acknowledged that Arsenal’s initial momentum faltered following Newcastle’s goal. “I think the energy and momentum changed. We got dragged too much into the game they wanted to play and weren’t good enough or consistent enough to get out of that. You look at the chances, possession, and dominance, and there’s no difference between the teams.”
The manager was clear that Arsenal had to be more clinical in these situations. “The reality is, when we had the chances, we didn’t score, and we didn’t create enough threat consistently against an opposition that does very well at what it does.
“Defensively, they are really good. When they are ahead, they take a very different approach, and we struggled to open them up. When we did, the final pass and the quality of those deliveries weren’t good enough to really hurt them. And when we had three big chances, we obviously didn’t score.
“Today we have to really swallow that one because it’s always painful losing a game in this league,” Arteta added. “It’s painful, it’s got its consequences, and today we’re not going to find the right words to describe it, but by Wednesday we really have to be ready.
“That’s the sport. You get knocked out, you’re in a difficult position, you feel terrible about it, and in a few hours, you need to start to stand up, find solutions, work more, and get into it.”
Arsenal’s lacklustre showing against Newcastle highlighted how crucial Martin Ondergo in their midfield. At times, they looked lost without their captain’s influence.
Odegaard, sidelined since September with ankle ligament damage, remains the league’s top creator despite his absence, underscoring his irreplaceable value. Arsenal’s struggles against Newcastle—where they controlled possession but lacked cutting edge—emphasised this void.
Upcoming matches, including a clash with Chelsea, loom large. Arsenal are hopeful Odegaard will return in time, with Mikel Arteta being cautious over his recovery.
Without their captain, Arsenal’s attacking fluency and title ambitions appear increasingly fragile.
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