Arteta Accepts Responsibility After Arsenal’s Draw with Wolves

omidbasir- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta stated that his team has only themselves to blame after relinquishing a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with lowly Wolves at Molineux. He remarked that all criticism directed at his side was warranted following this setback.

The Gunners now find themselves just five points ahead of Manchester City, having played one additional match, and have secured only two victories in their last seven league encounters.

Arteta emphasized the importance of accepting criticism and underscored the necessity of bouncing back against Tottenham on Sunday. “Wolves cannot be underestimated, and credit goes to them for their performance,” Arteta noted. “We made basic errors that contributed to our inability to maintain control, and in an open game, such lapses can lead to unforeseen outcomes.”

He continued, “We must accept any question or criticism directed our way today. We did not perform at the required level. Any observations made are valid because we fell short of our responsibilities. Our response must be demonstrated on the pitch on Sunday, presenting another significant opportunity.”

Arteta remarked on the need for the team to exhibit strength and resilience, stating, “Although it’s easy to talk about it, the real proof must come from our performance on the field.”

Bukayo Saka opened the scoring with his fifth goal of the season, followed by Piero Hincapie doubling the lead with his first goal for the club just 11 minutes into the second half. However, Wolves responded with a stunning strike from Hugo Bueno to narrow the gap, and Tom Edozie, coming off the bench, equalized late on his debut, casting doubt on Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations.

Reflecting on the outcome, Arteta expressed his disappointment, stating, “We are extremely disappointed with both the result and the manner in which it concluded. We need to take responsibility for this performance. Our display in the second half did not meet the standards required to secure a win in this league. While we may want to express our feelings now, this is not the appropriate time.”

Arteta asserted that at the highest level, teams must be prepared to face the consequences of their actions: “Today, we deserved the outcome we received. We have a crucial match ahead on Sunday. Our performance lacked dominance, even after scoring the second goal, which is a reality we must confront.”

Historically, Arsenal has led in each of the last three title races but has ultimately finished second each season. This draw may evoke unsettling memories of potentially repeating that outcome after losing a lead.

Wolves manager Rob Edwards celebrated his team’s second consecutive draw and was proud of the determination displayed to secure an unexpected point. “It feels rewarding to achieve a late equalizer, especially when trailing 2-0 against a team like Arsenal,” Edwards remarked. “We faced Arsenal with a clear understanding of the challenge. During the first 20-30 minutes, the game unfolded as we anticipated.”

He added, “Staying in the game was crucial for us. We demonstrated belief and played with increased emotion and character. Despite the challenges, our players maintained their confidence, which was crucial.”

This report incorporates information from PA.