Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal coach, applauded his squad for igniting the ‘dream of a potential title challenge’ on the last day of the season, following their victory over Manchester United. He also hinted at Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal’s greatest adversaries, having the capacity to influence the results positively for Arsenal, in their upcoming match against Manchester City.
The 20th-minute goal of Leandro Trossard propelled Arsenal to the first place, leading with 87 points – one point over City. City’s remaining game against Tottenham could impact the results significantly. A tie in the match with Ange Postecoglu’s team would exalt Arsenal due to their superior goal difference of three, headway into the final day. The final day will see a face-off between City and West Ham, and Arsenal shall play home to Everton. Regardless of Tuesday’s match result, the challenge will persist for Arsenal till the last day.
When Arteta was questioned about the possibility of Spurs facilitating a helping hand, he responded by saying ideally, they should – because any team is capable of beating any other team – and that Arsenal requires favourable outcomes. He highlighted that the unfolding of the event would be presented before their fans and they would have the opportunity to collectively experience it.
Arteta acknowledged the hurdles of achieving victory at United, citing it as the probable reason for their two win record at Old Trafford in the past two decades. He admitted that scoring the first goal had adversely affected their game strategy.
Kai Havertz, the maker of Trossard’s decisive goal, agreed with his manager’s sentiments. He even playfully confessed he’d transform into the biggest Tottenham fan, at least momentarily.
United’s loss marked their ninth home defeat in all competitions – a record high since the 1973-4 season when they faced relegation. Languishing in the eighth place, they may require a defeat of City in the FA Cup final to secure a place in Europe. Upon being asked if he could have done anything differently this season, Erik ten Hag, the manager of United, indicated that managing a team amidst numerous injuries was akin to swimming with one’s hands tied to the back and trying to stay afloat.
“We remain in the final stages of the cup, however, in order to move a team forward, fit players are a necessity. Observing our opponents today, it was evident that only one player wasn’t fully fit for the game, unlike us who had an ample number. As expressed, the lack of European football on our part could lead to detrimental effects.”