Mikel Arteta has reflected on the hard earned victory over Aston Villa and hailed Arsenal’s squad depth, maturity and resilience after the Gunners secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday.
Bukayo Saka scored the only goal of the game to hand Arsenal all three points and mark a memorable occasion for Arteta, who celebrated his 250th Premier League match in charge of the club.
Arteta praises Arsenal squad depth
Arteta described the victory as a “squad victory” and praised every player who contributed to the result.
“I think it was a squad victory and everybody that was involved in the game in any capacity made a difference for us,” Arteta said.
“That’s a big message for all of us because with the depth that we have and with the quality that we have, if you really make that count, that’s going to be a massive boost for us.”
Arteta reflects on last season’s defeat
The Arsenal manager admitted that last season’s defeat at Villa Park remained fresh in his mind and helped motivate his players.
Arteta said he reminded his squad of the emotional scenes after that defeat and used the experience to build belief ahead of the latest meeting.
“That image when the players were on the floor totally gutted. It was a really difficult one to take and we used that to bring energy, to bring more conviction and belief,” he said.
Arteta also praised his players for responding to the demands of a difficult away fixture.
“Today when we had to suffer, we did suffer and when we had to be really dominant, we were. So I’m really pleased.”
Arteta praises Arsenal’s maturity
The Gunners showed greater maturity this time by managing the game effectively after taking the lead.
Arteta believes the team demonstrated the ability to change momentum and adapt to the demands of the match.
“It was very different, and that shows a lot of maturity; that shows as well the tools that we have in the players to change momentum and to understand what the game needed,” he said.
He also praised Ebs and Ezri for making important contributions, with Ezri making his debut in difficult circumstances.
“He looks so composed, so calm, so in control. For all those reasons, I think that’s the reason why we won the game.”
Arteta explains Eze’s impact
Arteta highlighted Eze’s attacking influence and defensive contribution during the victory.
“We knew that he could create an action. He created three actions that he put people almost looking at the goalkeeper one-against-one, but as well I have to trust him,” Arteta said.
The Arsenal boss also believes Eze learned from last season’s mistakes at Villa Park and responded positively this time.
“Every time something was happening he was at it, and I think he helped the team in a great way.”
Arsenal keep Aston Villa quiet
Arsenal produced an impressive defensive display by limiting Aston Villa to zero shots on target.
Arteta praised his players for maintaining their concentration throughout the match against a Villa side capable of making life difficult for visiting teams.
“In the Premier League away from home, when you come to these quality squads, these quality coaches and they know how to make life really tough for you, you have to be at it consistently throughout the game,” he said.
Arteta addresses transfer deadline day
With the transfer deadline approaching, Arteta confirmed that Arsenal will continue working to strengthen the squad.
“As I said, we’re trying to improve the squad – until tomorrow night we’re going to try to do that,” he said.
The Spaniard added that he had deliberately stayed away from transfer developments while preparing for the Villa match.
“I’ve been disconnected from the world for 24 hours because I think my energy probably has to be on the match, but I will get back on it now.”
Arsenal still want more squad depth
Arteta admitted Arsenal could need more options, particularly with the club competing on four fronts this season.
