Gary Neville has branded Arsenal a 'one-trick pony' under Mikel Arteta, questioning whether the Gunners truly believe they can win the Premier League. The Manchester United legend criticised Arsenal’s reliance on set pieces following their 1-1 draw with Manchester City, warning that without greater attacking spark, their title push could ultimately fall short.
Arsenal faltering in Premier League yet again
Arsenal needed a late Gabriel Martinelli equaliser to secure a point against Manchester City at the Emirates on Sunday. While the result kept them in the mix at the top, their blunt attacking display raised fresh doubts. Neville highlighted that Pep Guardiola’s tactical approach underlined how one-dimensional Arsenal can look when their set-piece threat is contained.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportNeville tears into Arsenal's struggles
Speaking about Arsenal’s style of play, Neville said: "I think the reason he [Guardiola] has done that is because he is recognising that Arsenal are a bit, you know, they're a one-trick pony. Set pieces are such a large percentage of their chances and goals that you end up in a situation where you just got to have big players in the box and a goalkeeper that punches."
On Arteta’s team selections: "My narrative with Arsenal was thinking, is he going to take the risk? And the team sheet comes through and I see that Trossard and Merino are on it. If you're making two substitutions at half time, it's not gone to plan and you know that the players you started with are not going to be able to win you the game in all circumstances, which is when they go a goal down."
On Arsenal’s belief: "You can't wait to win a league. Arsenal are not creating enough chances in these types of games. I've predicted Arsenal will win the league… but does the manager and the players really believe, number one, that they can win the league? Do they know how to win a league?"
Arsenal risk being forgotten if they dont win the PL
Arsenal’s title challenge has been built on defensive solidity and set-piece efficiency, but doubts remain over whether that approach is sustainable against elite rivals. Neville pointed to the wealth of attacking talent Arteta has at his disposal, questioning why the Gunners lack creativity in big matches. Without more fluency in open play, Arsenal risk being remembered as a side that fell short when it mattered most, as they have finished second in the Premier League title race for three straight seasons.
Getty Images SportArsenal need a change to win the title
Arteta will look for a stronger attacking display when Arsenal return to league action next weekend against Newcastle. The Gunners must show they can win matches through more than just set pieces if they are to outlast City. With pressure building, every team sheet and tactical call from Arteta will face even greater scrutiny.
