Mikel Arteta explains why Arsenal keep dropping points in the Premier League
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration after his side twice surrendered the lead in a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium — a result that leaves Liverpool on the brink of securing their 20th league title.
The Gunners led on two occasions but were pegged back each time by a resilient Palace side, marking Arsenal’s 13th draw of the Premier League season — nine of which have come after taking the lead. Only Everton have drawn more games this campaign.
With just four matches remaining, Arsenal now trail league leaders Liverpool by 12 points. A draw for Arne Slot’s men against Tottenham on Sunday will be enough to seal the title.
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“I’m disappointed with the result and the performance,” said Arteta after the match. “We never got the consistency in many areas to completely dominate the game. We had possession, we went in front twice, but we didn’t grab the game and didn’t control it in the way we normally do.”
Jakub Kiwior gave Arsenal the lead with a well-placed header, only for Eberechi Eze to level with a spectacular volley. Leandro Trossard restored the home side’s advantage just before half-time, but substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta punished a defensive lapse from William Saliba with a sublime chipped finish to secure a point for Palace.
“It’s one of the best goals of my career,” said Mateta, reflecting on his composed finish.
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Arteta admitted his side failed to manage the game properly, particularly after taking the lead for the second time.
“When you’re not at your best but you’re ahead, you have to be able to see the game off. We weren’t able to do it, and the margins have been too small,” he said.
The Spaniard also dismissed suggestions that his players may have been distracted by their upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
“Hopefully not,” he said. “I don’t want to use that. Obviously, we’ve missed a lot of players and have been very short. But credit to Palace — they’re very well organised, a good side, and they made it difficult for us. The reality is that today, we weren’t at our best.”
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