Arteta Encourages Arsenal to Embrace Optimism After Recent Setback

omidbasir- Mikel Arteta has announced that he convened a meeting with his players to “bring down the temperature” and urged Arsenal’s anxious fanbase to “jump on the fun boat” following their defeat to Manchester United.

Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title faced a setback after a 3-2 loss to United at the Emirates Stadium last Sunday. The team has managed to secure only two points from their last three matches, out of a possible nine.

Despite this, Arsenal remains four points clear at the top of the league table. On Wednesday, they will host Kairat Almaty in the Champions League, aiming to maintain their flawless record in Europe thus far. Additionally, they are on track to reach the Carabao Cup final and continue competing in the FA Cup.

Arteta remarked on the team’s positive reaction since the loss to United. “We took a moment on Monday to bring the temperature down, pause, reflect, and ask ourselves two questions: ‘How do we feel?’ and ‘How do we want to live the next four months?’ ”

He noted that the conclusions drawn from the meeting were straightforward and encouraging. “We have earned the right to be in a great position across four competitions, and for the next four months, we will play with enjoyment, courage, and the conviction that we can win. This will be our mindset and where we focus our energy. I hope everyone associated with this club, especially our supporters, jumps on that boat because this is how we intend to live in the coming months—we deserve it.”

Arteta clarified that the meeting was a planned session, held every three to four weeks. “It is crucial to understand the reality versus perspective. Sometimes you need to look closely, while at other times, you should see the bigger picture. Clarity is essential.”

He expressed gratitude to his players, emphasizing their quality and the importance of enjoying the journey ahead. “I told them how good they are and how thankful I am to share every day with them. We must approach this with conviction, believing it will happen because this is our moment, and we fiercely desire it.”

Arsenal has finished as runners-up for the past three seasons and has not claimed the league title in 22 years. When asked if the past could weigh on supporters—some of whom booed at the final whistle after the defeat to United—Arteta acknowledged, “It’s a possibility, but we cannot control that. The past must serve as a powerful lesson for the future.”

He encouraged supporters to join the team’s journey, stating, “It’s going to be fun; the excitement, conviction, energy, and will are essential for achieving our dreams. We will give absolutely everything.”

However, Declan Rice and Mikel Merino will miss the upcoming match against Kairat due to suspension, alongside injured players Jurriën Timber and William Saliba.