The real reason why Mikel Arteta did something ‘people don’t like’ after Man City vs Arsenal
Mikel Arteta’s recent actions as Arsenal manager have proved controversial in some quarters.
Mikel Arteta had plenty of challenges to overcome throughout Arsenal’s recent clash with Manchester City.
Not only were the Gunners up against arguably the best club side in the world, without their injured captain Martin Odegaard, but Leandro Trossard’s red card also meant that they had to play more than half the match with only ten men.
Arteta had to change his tactics at half-time in order to cope with Trossard’s dismissal. Throughout the second period, the Gunners were far more defensively-minded.
The North London club sat deep, soaking up pressure and seeking to defend their slender lead. Whilst Arsenal’s defensive efforts were commended by Micah Richards, their resolve was eventually broken as John Stones netted a last gasp equaliser.
After the match, Arteta hit out at referee Michael Oliver and made his feelings about Trossard’s sending off plain.
Mark Noble defends Mikel Arteta actions after Man City vs Arsenal
Former West Ham United captain Mark Noble has now claimed that there is more behind Arteta’s complaints about refereeing decisions than might initially meet the eye.
Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, he said: “Actually in a way, I know people don’t like it, I think it’s very clever to keep team spirit, like ‘they’re against us’ and all that.”
Fostering an ‘us against them’ mentality within a dressing room can certainly be an effective method of cultivating team spirit. The Arsenal players will feel united in their battle against the odds.
However, there is a sense that Arteta has full conviction in his complaints too, as Arsenal will soon speak to PGMOL chief Howard Webb in an effort to address perceived officiating errors.
Arsenal will need unity for title race
The Gunners will be aiming to finally get the better of Manchester City in the Premier League title race this season.
In order to achieve that aim, they will need to produce remarkable consistency on the pitch, cope with a brutal fixture schedule, and show that they can respond to setbacks. These challenges will test the character of Arteta’s squad.
As such, the Spanish coach will be doing all he can to strengthen his squad mentally, in an effort to prepare them for the tests that are still to come.
