Mikel Arteta addressed recent observations about Arsenal’s playing style, responding to claims made after a hard-fought match against Bayern Munich.
Joshua Kimmich of Bayern suggested Arsenal frequently utilize long balls, a tactic Arteta directly addressed. He pointed to similarities in how both teams approached their recent contest against Paris Saint-Germain, highlighting a shift away from pure football and towards intense physical battles and strategic game management.
Arteta explained that the nature of the game evolved due to the opposing tactics, specifically the man-to-man marking and aggressive full-back play. This created a dynamic where longer passes became necessary to navigate the congested midfield and exploit space.
Looking ahead to a crucial Premier League clash against Chelsea, Arteta offered high praise for Enzo Maresca’s team. He acknowledged it’s early in the season, but described Chelsea as one of the most enjoyable teams to watch in the league.
Arteta specifically highlighted Chelsea’s fluidity, strength, and individual brilliance, noting their clear tactical identity. He believes these qualities make them a formidable opponent.
When asked about the significance of the Chelsea match, Arteta remained focused on the present. He emphasized that every game is the biggest of the season for Arsenal, demanding complete preparation and a relentless pursuit of victory.
Arteta’s approach centers on living in the moment, meticulously preparing for each challenge, and striving to outperform their opponents with every opportunity.
He views the upcoming match not as a defining moment, but as the next step in Arsenal’s journey, demanding their full attention and best effort.
