Mikel Arteta said he had no issue with Patrick Vieira questioning Arsenal’s mental strength after their 3-2 defeat to Manchester United.

The loss was Arsenal’s third winless league game in a row. It reduced their lead at the top to four points after wins for Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Arsenal took the lead in the 29th minute through a Lisandro Martinez own goal. However, they struggled after that.

Martin Zubimendi made a costly error before half-time. His misplaced pass allowed Bryan Mbeumo to score the equaliser. Patrick Dorgu then fired United into the lead with a stunning strike.

Mikel Merino came off the bench to level the match. Arsenal appeared set to push on for the win. Instead, Matheus Cunha scored a long-range winner for United.

After the match, Vieira said there were “questions about the mental strength of the team.”

Arteta responded by saying he respected the opinion. He said his players must show their strength on the pitch.

Arteta said Arsenal started strongly and controlled the opening half hour. He said the error shifted the energy in the game. He added that United scored two excellent goals and showed individual quality.

Michael Carrick praised his team’s performance. United have now won both matches under his interim leadership. He said his players managed the game well and showed calm under pressure.