Arsenal’s 1–1 draw with Manchester City may have salvaged a point against the reigning champions, but it hasn’t shielded manager Mikel Arteta from criticism — especially from former Gunners winger Theo Walcott, who questioned the team’s tactical approach and timing of substitutions.
A Late Rally, But Was It Too Late?
The match saw Arsenal fall behind early to an Erling Haaland strike, with the team struggling to create clear-cut chances for much of the game. It wasn’t until the second half — and particularly the final stages — that the Gunners began to show attacking intent.
Substitutes Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli combined to produce the equaliser, with Eze lofting a perfectly weighted ball over the top for Martinelli to finish coolly. The goal rescued Arsenal from defeat, but the performance left many wondering whether the team could have done more — and sooner.
Walcott: “Why Wait Until the 90th Minute?”
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day 2, Walcott didn’t hold back:
“My question would be, why did it take until the 90th minute for Arsenal to go on the offensive, why not from the start of the game? I’m not normally critical of Arteta, but it feels like he got away with one today.”
Walcott suggested that Arteta’s half-time substitutions — and the late introduction of other attacking players — were an admission that the initial game plan had misfired.
Arteta Defends His Decisions
Arteta, however, stood by his team selection. When asked whether his lineup was overly cautious, he responded:
“I leave that to you, but for me it’s a lot of attacking players in that team, yes.”
The Arsenal boss also defended his midfield trio of Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, and Mikel Merino, insisting they were chosen to control the game and provide balance.
Two Points Dropped or One Gained?
With Liverpool now five points clear at the top, Arsenal’s draw feels more like a missed opportunity than a triumph. The Gunners had the chance to close the gap and make a statement, but their slow start and reactive substitutions left fans and pundits alike questioning the intent.
Gary Neville also voiced concerns about the lineup, echoing Walcott’s sentiment that Arsenal may have approached the game too defensively.
The Bigger Picture
Arteta’s tactical conservatism has been a recurring theme in big matches. While his system has brought structure and consistency, critics argue that it sometimes stifles creativity — especially when facing elite opposition.
As the season progresses, the pressure will mount for Arsenal to not only secure results but to do so with greater attacking conviction. Whether Arteta adjusts his approach or continues to trust in his system remains to be seen — but the debate is far from over.
