Arteta Calls Arsenal Performance Unacceptable After Late Wolves Win

Arteta calls Arsenal's performance unacceptable after his side secured a dramatic 2-1 stoppage-time victory over Wolves at the Emirates Stadium to stay on course in the Premier League title race.

Arteta Calls Arsenal Performance Unacceptable Despite Late Win

Arsenal looked to be heading for a frustrating draw when Wolves substitute Tolu Arokodare struck in the 90th minute. His goal cancelled out Sam Johnstone’s first-half own goal, which had come from a Bukayo Saka corner.

In the fourth minute of six added on, Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera turned the ball into his own net. The mistake sealed a dramatic win for the hosts and marked a second own goal for the visitors on the night.

Late Drama at the Emirates

The late turnaround spared Arsenal’s blushes and kept them at the top of the Premier League table. However, the overall performance lacked fluency for long periods.

Despite dominating possession, the hosts struggled to break down a disciplined Wolves side. Defensive lapses late on allowed the visitors back into the contest.

Arteta Critical of Arsenal Display After Wolves Equaliser

The three points kept Arsenal’s title charge on track, but Mikel Arteta was far from satisfied.

“It was a relief, but we have a very clear understanding that the margins should have been bigger,” Arteta said.

Arsenal created more chances in the second half. However, Arteta highlighted a brief spell where his side became passive and sloppy in defence.

“The first time they had an opportunity to score they did,” he added. “We managed to score at the end and win it, but we should have stopped the shots before and that is on us.”

Even in victory, Arteta calls Arsenal performance unacceptable, with defensive lapses again threatening to undermine their title challenge.

“We knew it would not be an easy game,” Arteta continued. “We made it harder with the way we conceded, and that is unacceptable.”

Title Race Implications for Arsenal

A draw would have handed Manchester City the chance to leapfrog Arsenal with a win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Instead, Pep Guardiola’s side will head to Selhurst Park five points behind the north London club as the title race continues.

Defensive Injury Concerns Grow for Arsenal

Arsenal’s defensive problems deepened after Ben White was forced off with a hamstring injury after just 30 minutes.

With Gabriel, Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori already sidelined, White now looks set for a spell on the sidelines.

William Saliba returned after missing four matches with an ankle injury. Arteta admitted the risks involved in playing him.

“We had to risk William today,” he said. “It was not the best call to play him for 90 minutes. We were buying tickets for another injury, but we did not have anyone else.”

Wolves Left Empty-Handed Again

Despite a disciplined and organised display, Wolves once again left north London without reward.

The defeat extended their winless start to the season and left frustration in the dressing room.

Manager Rob Edwards praised his players’ effort despite the result.

“I am not going to complain about luck,” he said. “I am proud of the lads, but we lost the game.

“It hurts,” Edwards added. “The dressing room is flat, but I do not see a group that has given up. We need to keep going.”