After an eventful and historic win against Sporting CP in Lisbon, Mikel Arteta addressed the press to discuss the performance, the impact of the victory, Gabriel’s fitness, and more.
Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, especially considering the strength of the opponent who had not lost a game at home in 18 months. He commended the determination, purpose, and fluidity displayed by the team during the match.
Comparing the win to the Inter result, Arteta emphasized the difference between the result and the performance. He highlighted the team’s courage and efficiency in the opposition half, pointing out that good things were bound to happen in Europe with such performances.
The Arsenal manager praised Martin Odegaard for his excellent display, acknowledging the exceptional performance of all the players that contributed to the dominant scoreline achieved in the game.
Arteta also discussed the team’s need to be more ruthless, noting that they cannot afford to speculate during matches. He highlighted a period in the game where the team started to lose focus, but he was pleased with how they managed to deal with the situation and secure the win.
Regarding whether the win was a statement, Arteta acknowledged the team’s exceptional performances against big teams like PSG and Bayern in the past. He emphasized the importance of consistency at that level to build belief and prepare for future challenges.
Arteta mentioned the changes in the team since the international break, noting that more players are now fit and available for selection. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform at a high level and continue to improve.
When asked about Gabriel’s fitness, Arteta explained that the player felt some discomfort during the game, leading to a potential substitution that could not be made due to other circumstances.
Arteta praised Thomas Partey’s form this season, highlighting his dominance in the game and consistent performances. He emphasized Partey’s role in the team and his importance on the field.
Finally, Arteta credited the team’s success to their effectiveness and efficiency in all departments, despite facing challenges during the game. He highlighted the team’s ability to attack positions effectively, which was a key factor in securing the victory.
Overall, Arteta’s post-match press conference provided insights into the team’s performance, individual player contributions, and the key factors that led to the memorable win against Sporting CP.