EPL: Handle the noise or leave Arsenal, Arteta tells players
Mikel Arteta urges his Arsenal players to manage the pressure of title contention or consider leaving the club.
Mikel Arteta has issued a strong message to his Arsenal squad about the importance of handling the pressure associated with competing for the Premier League title. As the Gunners sit at the top of the league, just two points ahead of Manchester City, the stakes are high, especially as they aim to end a 22-year title drought. Arteta emphasized that if players find it difficult to withstand the scrutiny that comes with such a position, they should consider being part of a different club.
The team has faced challenges recently, winning only two of their last seven league matches, and criticisms have been mounting, particularly after a distressing draw against Wolverhampton, where they squandered a 2-0 lead. This performance has led some observers to label the team as 'bottlers,' a term Arteta quickly rejected. He insists that such negativity does not align with his mindset or that of the club as they strive to maintain their focus on the ultimate goal of securing the title.
Going into a crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur, Arteta's comments highlight the mental resilience required at this stage of the season. The pressure is not just on the players but is also a reflection of the club's long-term ambitions and history. Arteta's leadership will be vital in navigating this challenging period as the team looks to perform under intense scrutiny and expectations from fans and media alike.