Mikel Arteta pinpoints Arsenal’s problems in costly defeat to West Ham: ‘Should have been more than enough’
Introduction to this article:
Mikel Arteta admitted his side came up short in both boxes as Arsenal lost to West Ham to miss out on regaining top spot in the Premier League.
Arsenal’s Frustration
The Gunners remain behind Liverpool as they lost 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium on what Arteta conceded was one of the most frustrating nights of his four-year tenure as Arsenal boss.
West Ham’s Deserved Win
Tomas Soucek’s opener – awarded after the VAR could not determine whether the whole ball had gone out of play in the build up – and a second-half header from former Arsenal defender Konstantinos Mavropanos earned the visitors a deserved win.
Arteta Congratulates West Ham
Upon the game’s conclusion, Arteta congratulated West Ham and praised his own players, commending the performance of the opposition. The manager recognized that his team was outperformed in both penalty areas.
Arteta’s Frustration
Arteta expressed his frustration about how much the team generated in the game only for the result to be disappointing. He emphasized that the team’s performance warranted a better result and discussed the need for the team to score goals more comfortably.
Technology and Officiating Concerns
In discussing the VAR decision and close calls, Arteta expressed his disappointment with the current technology’s inability to make clear decisions. He also expressed that the team should have done enough to win independent of those decisions.
David Moyes and West Ham’s Victory
This game was particularly significant for West Ham and manager David Moyes, who secured a rare victory at the Emirates Stadium after struggling in previous matches at the venue. Moyes expressed his contentment after the win.
West Ham’s Growth and Future Expectations
Moyes discussed the team’s journey to where they are now and expressed optimism about future prospects. He also mentioned that he is ready to negotiate a new contract with the team.
